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Can you identify appropriate referral options for clients whose complex health needs may impact their risk of STBBIs?

  • A Core Competency in the Prevention of Sexually Transmitted and Blood-Borne Infections (STBBIs)

Consider...
Sheila works at a non-profit organization that provides support to former inmates of a nearby correctional facility. One afternoon during her organization's drop-in hours, she meets with Justin, a 30 year old man who lives in the neighbourhood. In speaking with Justin, Sheila learns that his overall health is poor and that despite a recent diagnosis of syphilis, he is generally ambivalent about his health and in particular his need to begin treatment. Sheila also notices that he has a lot of trouble focusing and that he seems to get agitated very easily. She fears Justin may be struggling with mental health problems, yet isn't sure where in the community Justin can access the support he needs.

Do you work in the area of sexual health or STBBI advocacy, prevention and support? Can you identify appropriate referral options for clients whose complex health needs may impact their risk of STBBIs?

Use the questions below to help you self-assess your knowledge, skills, attitudes and practices related to referral options for your clients with complex health needs. Remember that depending on your role, you may require different levels of proficiency for the various core competencies and it is possible that some of the competencies are not relevant to your work.

  1. Are you aware of your own strengths and limitations in providing health and/or social services, and do you know when to refer your clients for more specialized care?
  2. Do you apply proactive and patient-centred methods to involve clients in referral decisions?
  3. Are you able to make the referral process and transition comfortable and affirming for your clients? 
  4. Are you aware of the range of counselling and support services available in your community and can you match referrals to individual needs and circumstances? 
  5. Does your organization have policies related to assessing the competency and appropriateness of referral organizations and service providers in the areas of culture, race, gender, sexual orientation, and HIV/STBBIs?

Suggested resources:

This is one of a series of cases on the core competencies for STBBI prevention. View all 26 cases on the core competencies for STBBI prevention.

Have a resource to suggest? Let us know.