The telephone consultation at s.a.m health
Advice on sexually transmitted diseases – Why? Why?
We get this question very often. We know that the initial consultation can be perceived as an additional barrier. That’s why we explain in this article why the initial telephone consultation is important.
Your initial consultation for your test kit for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) / sexually transmitted diseases
After registering once, you will receive a test message with the consultation times of your selected partner checkpoint. Depending on the checkpoint you choose, you can make an appointment or have your initial consultation directly during office hours.
In this phone call, our advisors will explain to you exactly how the test kit and sample collection work.
They will also answer all your questions about sexually transmitted infections and work with you to determine how likely it was that you were infected. Together you will discuss how regularly STI testing would make sense. On this basis, you can then set a reminder interval for future tests, and of course you can always decide for yourself whether you need your STI test kit.
The conversation is important
…so that you also receive the right test kit with the right components for you and can also ask questions if you are unsure. Even if questions arise later or you would like personal advice, our experienced advisors are still there for you.
Who exactly are the partner checkpoints?
The Partner-Checkpoints are advice centers within the German AIDS Service Organization. They are spread throughout Germany across the individual federal states and offer education and advice on all topics and questions relating to sexual health. Find out more about the individual checkpoints.
What if a result is positive/reactive?
In many home tests with online registrations, people are more or less left alone with the result. However, a reactive or positive result can raise many questions and uncertainties for the person concerned. We would like to help you with advice and support.
HIV and counseling
Before reporting a reactive HIV result, our laboratory carries out a confirmatory test. Sometimes, for example, antibodies are found that look similar to those found in an HIV infection. To rule out such a “cross-reaction”, our laboratory carries out a confirmatory test to be on the safe side.
In the event that an HIV infection cannot be ruled out or if it is confirmed, you will receive a text message asking you to call the checkpoint, where the advisor will discuss the result with you and can then recommend a practice specializing in HIV in your area.
Nowadays, HIV infection can be treated well and also prevents the HIV virus from being passed on to other people, for example.
Syphilis and counseling
Our laboratory carries out different analyses for syphilis. Depending on whether you have previously had a syphilis infection or not, we will either only test for antibodies in the case of a first infection or whether there is a new infection. It is therefore important to inform us if a syphilis infection has been diagnosed by a doctor between two s.a.m. health test kits.
If our laboratory detects a new infection, you will also receive a text message with a callback request. The advisor will then discuss the next steps so that the infection can be treated. This is important, as untreated syphilis can have serious health consequences later on.
Counseling for chlamydia and gonorrhea
In this case, you will also receive a text message with a callback request. The purpose of the call is to discuss treatment options. If desired, the advisor will also help you to be referred to a doctor.
Of course, there is always the option of having a personal consultation independently of a test. You can call your checkpoint during office hours. If there is no time for a longer conversation, the advisor will arrange a call back or an appointment with you.
