New portal makes accessing sexual health services even easier in Essex
Essex Sexual Health Service have launched a new online system which makes it simpler for people across the county to access NHS sexual health services. The new Personal Health Record system will allow those seeking STI testing, contraception and sexual health support to book appointments and request testing kits and condoms through a single online log-in.
The New Online Portal and Personal Health Record
“Like many of the services we all use, our users tell us they would like to access support in a simple way and at a time that’s convenient for them. Our new online portal makes this much easier” says Georgina Wood, Navigation Hub Team Lead. The portal will allow users to book and alter appointments with sexual health clinics and professionals, order and track STI self-testing kits and manage their personal information, all in one location. Users will be asked to register using their email address, which will then be verified within 24 hours.
“Our new portal is about putting our service users in control. People can of course still call us but, rather than waiting on the phone, they can now get instant online access to a range of sexual health tools and support.” states Michelle Parker, Director – Business Development. All information held by the system is completely confidential and will not be linked to any other NHS health records.
STI Testing and Results
Through their personal profile, users will be able to request self-testing kits for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea and HIV. The portal allows users to track their order, confidentially review their subsequent test results online and reorder test kits in future. “Unfortunately, STIs are still a frequent occurrence throughout our community and not just in younger groups. The portal makes it easier to identify them early and get free condoms to help protect ourselves and our partners” adds Sue Luty, Interim Operational Sexual Health Lead.
Contraception Services and Prevention
Essex Sexual Health Services delivers NHS-funded sexual health services across Essex. They provide free information, support and treatment to help people stay safe, healthy and protected. For those looking for long-acting reversible contraception, the service provides:
- The contraceptive implant
- The hormonal coil
- The non-hormonal coil
- The contraceptive injection
Short-acting methods are also available, including the combined pill, the progestogen-only pill, the combined vaginal ring, and the patch. Barrier methods such as the internal condom and the external condom remain a key part of protection.
Access to Free Condoms
Users aged over 25 and living in Essex (excluding Southend) can use the online portal to request free condoms which can either be discretely sent by mail or collected from a number of local clinics. People in Essex aged 16 to 24 can also access free condoms via the eC-Card app which is available from Google Play or the Apple App Store. Once downloaded, they can select one of many collection points across the county and pick up 10 condoms and lubricant in a discreet pack.
Impact of the Pandemic on Service Usage
Fewer people in Essex used sexual health services during pandemic. Experts say widespread disruption to the NHS may have contributed to the significant drop in people contacting sexual health clinics nationally during the pandemic. The following table represents the change in service engagement based on NHS Digital figures:
| Metric | Year 2019-20 | Year 2020-21 |
|---|---|---|
| People approaching services | 22,970 | 13,160 |
| Face-to-face consultations | 95% | 46% |
Lisa Hallgarten, from sexual health charity Brook, noted that while some found speaking to professionals from home straightforward, others may have found lack of data or Wi-Fi an obstacle to accessing the services they need. This shift could have prevented people from accessing help and support with contraception, pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.
Specialised Procedures
In addition to standard sexual health care, MSI Reproductive Choices UK is here for you, providing procedures for the NHS. They have been providing vasectomy procedures for the NHS for over 40 years and specialise in treatment, advice & support for people considering abortion.