The Relevance of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) in Relation to Access to Services in a Rural Area of New South Wales

Purpose of the paper: This paper will present the findings from a qualitative study that explored the meaning and experiences of people in relation to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and how such experiences influence access to relevant services in the region. Methods: Participants for the study were recruited through the use of snowballing and self selection. Interviews were conducted with 24 participants aged between 19 and 65 years and living in rural communities. The interview data was transcribed and analysed using grounded theory methodology principles. The study is part of a larger project that includes quantitative data from NSW Health Notifiable Diseases Database on syphilis notifications for the Hunter New England Area Health, Northern region. Results: Findings from this study indicate infividuals engage in a process of regulating the flow of private information about STIs. The paper describes conditions that influence an individual's capacity to identify, seek and utilise the most appropriate service. It becomes apparent that close connections with other people is particularly relevant when accessing services within a rural town. Findings: The implications of this study for policy and practice highlight the need to reconsider the current conceptualisation of STIs, particularly in relation to the complex social ties that exist in rural communities. Anonymity and confidentiality are important aspects for influencing the way in which people make decisions when seeking health care for STIs.