The National Network of Sexually Transmitted Disease Clinical Prevention Training Centers Turns 40-A Look Back, a Look Ahead.

Since 1979, the National Network of Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) Clinical Prevention Training Centers (NNPTC) has provided state-of-the-art clinical and laboratory training for STD prevention across the United States. This article provides an overview of the history and activities of the NNPTC from its inception to present day, and emphasizes the important role the network continues to play in maintaining a high-quality STD clinical workforce. Over time, the NNPTC has responded to changing STD epidemiological patterns, technological advances, and increasing private-sector care-seeking for STDs. Its current structure of integrated regional and national training centers allows NNPTC members to provide dynamic, tailored responses to STD training needs across the country.

The Value of Experiential Sexually Transmitted Disease Clinical Training in the Digital Age.

BACKGROUND: The translation of evidence-based guidelines for sexually transmitted disease (STD) care into clinical practice is crucial for the prevention and control of STDs. METHODS: Participants in a hands-on, multifaceted, small-group STD Clinical Intensive Course from 2006 to 2013 were asked to complete a survey regarding course content and value compared with other continuing education courses. Survey respondents with demographic and professional information were compared with all other course participants. χ Statistics were used to test for differences in proportions; the Cochran-Armitage trend test was used to evaluate for trends in response rate by year of training. RESULTS: Of 113 respondents (35.9% response rate), 92.9% felt that clinical knowledge stayed longer, 84.1% changed clinical practice more, and 90.3% recommended the course more, compared with other continuing education programs in which they had participated previously. Respondents' average suggested registration fee should the course no longer be free was $188.90. Physician assistants and advanced practice nurses were overrepresented among respondents (69.4% vs. 58.1%, P = 0.04); more recent course participants were more likely to respond (P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that this STD experiential clinical training program is still relevant to participants in the digital age and is valued more highly than other continuing education experiences. A significant disconnect was identified between what participants are willing/able to pay versus actual course costs, indicating that cost is likely to become a barrier to participation should the course no longer be free.