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. 2004 Feb;80(1):30–34. doi: 10.1136/sti.2003.004937

Physicians' opinions about partner notification methods: case reporting, patient referral, and provider referral

M Hogben 1, L St 1, D Montano 1, D Kasprzyk 1, J Leichliter 1, W Phillips 1
PMCID: PMC1758392  PMID: 14755032

Abstract

Background: The United States has relied upon partner notification strategies to help break the chain of infection and re-infection for sexually transmitted diseases (STD). Physicians are a vital link in the system of STD control, but little is known of physician opinions about partner notification strategies.

Methods: We collected opinions about partner notification from a national probability sample of physicians in specialties diagnosing STDs. Physicians responded to 17 questions about three relevant forms of STD partner notification: patient based referral, provider based referral, and case reporting.

Results: Exploratory factor analyses showed that responses for each form of partner notification could be grouped into four categories: perceived practice norms, infection control, patient relationships, and time/money. Multivariate analyses of the factors showed that physicians endorsed patient based referral most favourably and provider based referral least favourably.

Conclusion: Physicians' opinions about partner notification strategies appear to reflect objective reality in some areas, but not in others. Strategies that improve the fit between physicians' opinions and effective notification are needed: some are discussed here.

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Selected References

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