[Profile of Chlamydia test utilization by the physicians of Laval].

Abstract

Before recommending systematic screening for Chlamydia trachomatis in young sexually-active women in its population, the Laval Community Health Department set out to document current practices in chlamydia testing. The objective of the study was to determine for whom these tests were prescribed, by whom and why. Data were obtained from a representative sample of 413 medical records. The greatest proportion of tests were prescribed for young women between the ages of 15-24 years. More than 85% of the tests were ordered by general practitioners, most of whom practiced in both hospital setting and private clinics. More than half of the tests were administered to obtain a diagnosis; approximately 42% were done for screening purposes. The study revealed a failure to document the sexual history of patients. It was estimated that between 30 and 40% of Chlamydia tests were not justified in being prescribed (according to the recommendations in the literature). It is possible that the criteria in the medical literature are too complex for use in everyday practice. The authors recommend the creation of specific tools adapted to physicians' needs, and the development of a screening program based on a systematic, step-by-step approach to determine whether or not a test is warranted.