Integrated sexual health services: the views of medical professionals

Cult Health Sex. 1999 Apr-Jun;1(2):131-45. doi: 10.1080/136910599301067.

Abstract

PIP: This paper describes the findings of the in-depth semi-structured interview of medical professionals on their views on integrated sexual health services. Health professionals working in genitourinary medicine, family planning, and generic sexual health services in UK were selected to represent the views of the clinical staffs in different residential areas and levels of integration. Findings showed that many sexual health professionals had strong positive views of integrating family planning, and genitourinary medicine services. They reported that integration was seen as benefiting clients as well as the staffs in terms of increased opportunities for career development. However, there were reservations expressed concerning the issues relating to professional status, career development, and adequacy of expertise; for example, as in the two specialties of family planning and genitourinary medicine, wherein family planning tends to be preventive and community-based, while the latter is more curative and hospital-based. Negative views are important in signaling perceived obstacles to integration, which should not be construed. Rather, it would allow the move towards integrated services to be guided by and to take account of all the factors likely to influence effectiveness.

MeSH terms

  • Behavior
  • Data Collection*
  • Delivery of Health Care
  • Developed Countries
  • Europe
  • Health
  • Health Personnel*
  • Health Planning*
  • Health Services*
  • Organization and Administration
  • Perception*
  • Psychology
  • Research*
  • Sampling Studies
  • United Kingdom