A Survey on Quality of Services, Training, and Attitude of Dermatology Trainee Residents About Sexually Transmitted Infections in Teaching Hospitals Across India.

Abstract

Introduction: The incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) has increased disproportionately to STI services. It is uncertain how many residents trained in STI services continue them. This study assessed the self-rated quality of training and attitudes about STI services amongst residents of Indian teaching hospitals.

Materials and methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional survey study, opinions from Indian postgraduate trainee residents were sought in three domains of STIs- institutional STI management practices, quality and satisfaction with training, and attitude towards STI services.

Results: A total of 225 responses were included. There was no separate area for STI services at centers of 51.6% of residents, and among those with separate STI posting, the duration was ≤2 months for 34.7%, with 59.6% wishing for its increase. Easily available bedside tests were used regularly when indicated by only 41.8%. Only 58.2% of respondents strictly ensured contact tracing and partner treatment. Only 65.8% of centers had provision of benzathine penicillin. Under-confidence in managing STIs independently was reported by 19.6%. Inadequate training was the second reason for wishing to discontinue STI services upon completion of training; with 71.5% wishing to continue STI practice. In univariate analysis, frequent point-of-care testing (P < 0.001), and >2 months of separate STI posting (P = 0.018) were associated with good satisfaction with STI training. Frequent point-of-care testing (P < 0.001), and male gender (P < 0.001) were associated with good confidence in independently managing STIs. Male gender (P = 0.038), having less reluctance in dealing with STI patients (P = 0.003), and good confidence in independently managing STIs (P = 0.008), was associated with willingness to continue STI practice.

Conclusions: STI care is associated with reluctance. Current STI training in Indian teaching hospitals is less than desired and can lead to unwillingness amongst residents to practice STI services in the future. Having >2 months of separate STI posting, frequent point-of-care tests, and efforts to reduce reluctance when dealing with STI patients are steps that can improve the STI training experience of residents.