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How to Communicate STI and HIV Test Results Online to MSM?

Authors:
Esther Moekotte
Joyce Karreman
Lisette van Gemert-Pijnen
Udi Davidovich

Keywords: eHealth, STI, HIV, professional communication, empathic communication

Abstract:
Testlab is an online service for Men who have Sex with Men (MSM) to get tested on STIs and HIV. Testlab is part of the MANtotMAN project. This project aims to improve testing behaviour and increase awareness on STIs and HIV among MSM. Currently, the users of Testlab do not receive specific test result online, because it does not seem appropriate to communicate potentially upsetting news online, without the presence of a health care professional. However, little is known about the barriers and motives MSM perceive in receiving online test results. Forty-four interviews were held with MSM to investigate barriers, motives and the importance of the tone of online communication regarding test results. The main conclusion of this study is that the vast majority of participants would like to have the option to choose whether or not to receive their specific test results online. They perceive little barriers in receiving low impact STIs (Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and) test results. More barriers are perceived for HIV online test results.

Pages: 92 to 97

Copyright: Copyright (c) IARIA, 2012

Publication date: January 30, 2012

Published in: conference

ISSN: 2308-4359

ISBN: 978-1-61208-179-3

Location: Valencia, Spain

Dates: from January 30, 2012 to February 4, 2012