Table 2

Partner notification outcomes for sex partners from both clinics according to method selected by index

APTHotline n=135 contactable partnersAPTPharmacy n=44 contactable partnersRoutine PN n=117 contactable partnersPharmacy versus routineHotline versus routine
n% (95% CI)n% (95% CI)n% (95% CI)p Valuep Value
Primary outcome:
 Partners engaged with allocated method65/13548 (39 to 58)15/4434 (22 to 49)13/11711 (6 to 19)0.001<0.001
 Partners assumed treated by allocated method47/13535 (26 to 45)15/4434 (22 to 49)13/11711 (6 to 19)0.001<0.001
 Partners assumed treated by any method80/13559 (49 to 69)29/4466 (52 to 78)42/11736 (26 to 47)0.0010.003
Method of ascertainment of primary outcome:
 Outcome verified by contact with trial PN arm61/8076 (64 to 85)15/2952 (34 to 69)13/4231 (19 to 47)0.086<0.001
 Outcome verified by index at follow-up interview*19/8024 (15 to 36)14/2948 (31 to 66)29/4269 (54 to 81)0.086<0.001
Secondary outcomes:
 Partner provided sample for STI testing29/4959 (45 to 72)6/1540 (19 to 66)12/1392 (60 to 99)0.0090.030
 Sample tested25/4951 (38 to 64)5/1533 (14 to 60)12/1392 (60 to 99)0.0040.010
 Sample positive7/2528 (14 to 49)1/520 (3 to 71)N/A no consentN/AN/A
 Partner attended clinic for HIV/syphilis testing2/494 (0.5 to 14)0/150 (0 to 22)12/13§92 (60 to 99)<0.001<0.001
  • * Index patient reported outcomes for partners who engaged with other health services and so were managed outside of trial.

  • Seven partners tested positive for C trachomatis.

  • One partner tested positive for C trachomatis.

  • § Two partners declined an HIV test but were tested for syphilis.

  • Samples were tested for the relevant microbiological and virological pathogens according to each clinic's standard testing protocols, which were compliant with current British Association for Sexual Health and HIV National Testing Guidelines.

  • APT, Accelerated Partner Therapy.