Use of GUM services and information and views held by first time service users in a large UK city: implications for information provision

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between and views held by service users before obtaining help from a medicine (GUM) service and the accessibility and use of the service, to determine potential intervention measures for change. A structured was completed by 292 first-time GUM service users in a large UK in 1994. Overall 94 (57.7%) of 163 male service users and 59 (48.4%) of 122 service users had some information about the service before seeking help, this difference was not significant. Only 92 (31.5%) knew the service was The main source of information was through general practitioners with personal contact as the second most common information source. Two and fifteen (73.6%) used the service within 2 weeks of needing help and (35.6%) of these felt there was delay, but reporting delay was not associated having information about the service. The majority indicated feeling nervous embarrassed about using the service. Female service users were more likely to feel nervous or embarrassed than male service users 0.05). Service users were significantly more likely to feel nervous when they no information about the service than if they knew something about the service 0.01). Most service users regarded the service as dealing with sexually infections (STIs), and most intended to use the service for this reason. whilst many service users indicated knowledge about non-STI services, HIV counselling and testing, relatively few intended to use these services. service users (269, 92.1%) were in favour of increased availability information GUM clinics mainly through written media but also through GPs. The results this study show a clear need to project increased awareness and information this GUM service so as to encourage use of the range of services available and more positive feelings about using the service. Information in written as well as through other health professionals may be of benefit. Further work needed to study the effect of information provision in influencing the large of potential service users to make use of sexual health services.