(069) Establishing and Evaluating Initial Utilization of an Integrated STI Clinic in University Primary Care: A Preliminary Observational Review

Introduction University students are at significant risk for sexually transmitted infections (STI) due to factors inherent to their age and social environments. However, students often face barriers to accessing specialized healthcare, including stigma and concerns about confidentiality. By leveraging the principles of primary care through the 4C model, an integrated STI clinic within a university health service can serve as a trusted "first point of contact" for students; provide "comprehensive care" that addresses both biomedical and psychosocial needs; "co-ordinate" a range of health professionals and specialties; and ensure "continuity of care". This model offers a familiar, accessible, and destigmatized solution to this public health issue, moving beyond disease treatment to deliver holistic care. This preliminary study examines the initial utilization of a newly established STI clinic to understand its role and effectiveness in addressing students’ healthcare needs within this setting. Objective The purpose of this study was to describe the initial patient demographics, presenting problems, disease prevalence, and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) administration at a new STI clinic integrated into a university primary care setting. The study aimed to identify common health concerns and risk factors to inform the future development of the clinic, ensuring it provides Comprehensive and patient-centered care. Methods This was a preliminary, observational retrospective review of service statistics collected at an on-campus STI clinic from January to September 2025. Data was compiled from the clinic’s service log, including total visits, patient status, diagnoses, presenting complaints, and risk factors. The data also captured elements related to Continuing Care (e.g., administration of PEP and follow-up over multiple visits) and Co-ordinating Care (e.g., referrals for consultation). As a preliminary review of anonymized, aggregated service data for quality improvement, this study did not require Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval. Results Over the nine-month period, the clinic recorded a total of 229 visits. The majority of visitors were undergraduate students (160), followed by external individuals, and graduate students. The number of monthly visits fluctuated, peaking in July with 48 visits. The most frequently diagnosed conditions across all months were Gonorrhea, Syphilis, and Urethritis. Other common presenting issues included non-specific complaints such as vaginal discharge and rashes. An increasing number of patients sought post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) after unprotected sex. For example, between July and September, 18 patients received PEP. Referrals to other specialized services, such as gynecology and infectious disease clinics, were also noted. Conclusions This preliminary data demonstrates a clear and consistent demand for specialized STI services among the university population. The integration of an STI clinic within primary care by 4C model successfully attracted students and other members of the university community, addressing a variety of sexual health needs from specific infections to general concerns and risk reduction strategies like PEP. The findings highlight that beyond specific STI, patients present with a range of symptoms requiring thorough evaluation. These initial results support the necessity of the clinic and provide foundational evidence for enhancing its services, tailoring educational outreach, and securing permanent resources to improve the long-term sexual health of students. Disclosure No