Genital Chlamydia trachomatis infection - a study of general practice management in northern Queensland

Abstract

Background: Most diagnoses of genital Chlamydia trachomatis infection in Queensland are made by general practitioners. This study aimed to describe GP knowledge of recommended guidelines for chlamydia management and ascertain GPs' preferred model for contact tracing.

Methods: A questionnaire completed by 35 GPs in northern Queensland in January 2011.

Results: Although the majority of GPs reported treating uncomplicated chlamydia infection correctly with azithromycin, very few (26%) used empirical treatment. Most reported testing for re-infection within 6 weeks of initial positive results, earlier than recommended. The GPs preferred the notifiable disease register to refer the patient directly to a specialist contact tracer.

Conclusion: General practitioners in this regional location - and probably elsewhere - would benefit from education around the timing of re-testing. Public health units and sexual health services should consider ways of providing a contact tracing service for patients with positive chlamydia results in general practice.