Curriculum for General Practice - The Royal New Zealand College ...

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Curriculum Sexual Health for General Practice
General practitioners are in the ideal situation to deal with
sexual health as part of the overall health and wellbeing
of their patients. Sexual health is interwoven through the
complexities of our patients’ lives, alongside changing social
relationships, chronic illness and impairment, and increased
life expectancy.
However, irrespective of age and presenting concern,
many patients – and many GPs – are whakama (shy
or embarrassed) about sexual health issues. Strong
communication skills are an extremely important tool with
which to establish a respectful and trusting therapeutic
relationship. GPs have opportunities to provide information
that enables patients to make informed choices and take
responsibility for their sexual and reproductive health, from
adolescence through to later years.
Communication
The GP will demonstrate the ability to:
• outline the guidelines and limits of confidentiality,
including using translators
• initiate contact tracing discussions and follow up as
appropriate in their area
• use appropriate language that does not discriminate
against age, gender, disability, sexual orientation or
personal beliefs and values, and be particularly aware
of cultural parameters that may surround sexual health
• provide accurate, honest explanation and education
appropriate to the age and stage of the patient
• take an appropriate sexual history
• deal with issues that may be uncomfortable for the patient
and/or the GP.
• provide pre-test counselling, particularly for hepatitis
and HIV testing
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Curriculum for General Practice