More STI services in Surf Coast

Don't be embarrassed about chatting to your GP about symptoms that might indicate a sexually transmitted infection. (iStock)

Anglesea Medical has joined the Victorian Sexual Health Network to help manage sexually transmissible infections (STI) in the Surf Coast region.

The centre partnered with the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre (MSHC) on June 13 to provide important sexual services to residents.

General practitioner Doctor Lucy Dobson said providing STI management was necessary, and it was often treatable and preventable.

“Detection and treatment of STIs is not just helping the individual but multiple people,” she said.

“Anglesea Medical aims to provide an inclusive and confidential environment where we can test, detect and treat STIs for people of the Surf Coast and surrounding shires.

“We are aiming to provide asymptomatic testing, support people requiring treatment and aid contact tracing.”

Belmont’s Kardinia Health also delivers sexual health services in Western Victoria Kardinia, and chief executive Michelle Heagney said the centre was able to help more people by partnering with MSHC.

“By partnering with MSHC we have been able to provide additional detailed training to our GP and nursing team,” she said.

“Through aligning with their communications, we have seen an increase in patient numbers.”

Western Victoria Primary Health Network (WVPHN) chief executive Rowena Clift said it supported the recruitment of GP clinics in the region.

“WVPHN is delighted with the outcome and congratulate Anglesea Medical on securing this important partnership to deliver sexual health services in the region,” she said.

More information on STI management and prevention is available at staystifree.org.au