Recent news about Sexually Transmitted Disease rates in the Finger Lakes region that are higher than New York State averages obviously raises concerns, as it should. For those working in the field of reproductive health care, this is a particularly disconcerting trend. I would point out though that the data referred to includes counties which differ demographically from our rural service area.
As Director of the former Yates Family Planning Services, now a division of Finger Lakes Community & Migrant Health, I have seen trends that, in my opinion, could further explain increases in STDs. Our clinicians and health educators verify a shift in attitude about sex in the past several years. Sex is viewed more casually, especially among young people. At the same time, the longer-term effects of the abstinence-only focus on sex education may be reflected in the data. Furthermore, it appears the data reflects state and national trends of reduced numbers of people accessing health care due to the economy, loss of jobs and health insurance, etc.
I also believe that, on a positive note, data may show that more attention is being paid to STDs. Might we just have more information?
For example, Chlamydia, became a reportable STD 10 years ago. Family planning clinics are now asked to strongly encourage STD testing during routine exams, especially for patients determined to be at risk for an STD. Advances in the technology of STD tests make it easier to get patients to agree to be tested. Chlamydia and Gonorrhea testing can be done using urine samples and oral swabs can be used for HIV testing with only 20 minute wait time for preliminary results. These advances make it easier to provide STD testing in non-traditional settings.
STDs continue to be a serious health issue. Clinical testing is improving and reproductive health providers emphasize STD testing during routine health examinations.
Yates Family Planning Services’ merger with Finger Lakes Community & Migrant Health promises to align services well with evidence-based practice of using a comprehensive approach to primary health care. We will be more effective in reaching the population most in need of family planning and primary care services and we will be ready to meet the growing need for health care.
FLCMH has centers in Geneva, Penn Yan, Sodus, Port Byron and Bath.
Marty Blumenstock,
Family Planning
Division, Finger Lakes Community & Migrant Health
