New developments in sexual health and HIV/AIDS policy

Following on from the Committee's earlier inquiry (HCP 69-1, session 2002-03, ISBN 021501104X) published in June 2003, this report examines progress made to address sexual health issues, including services access and funding, screening policies for chlamydia, sex education, primary care services, and the public health implications of the introduction of charges for overseas visitors for NHS treatment for HIV/AIDS. Findings include that rates of sexually transmitted infections have continued to rise since 2003, despite the introduction of a maximum waiting time of 48 hours for access to sexual health clinics, with problems identified in ensuring increased funding is targeted effectively on the clinics in order to increase their capacity to meet rising demand. The Government should review the GP contract in order to prioritise sexual health needs, with a dedicated training programme established for GPs and practice nurses. The Committee also recommends that by 2007, personal, social and health education (PSHE) lessons in schools should be taught by specialist accredited teachers rather than unqualified form tutors, and established as a statutory assessed part of the National Curriculum.