IngentaConnect Public and private collaboration in establishing a young persons ...

Authors: Mackie C.M.¹; Elliot L.²; Thomson D.A.M.³; Bigrigg A.⁴; McAllister K.F.⁵

Source: Journal of Family Planning and Reproductive Health Care, Volume 28, Number 4, 1 October 2002 , pp. 201-203(3)

Publisher: Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare

Abstract:

Objective: To define the key factors and constraints in public-private sector collaboration in establishing and delivering a young person's sexual health clinic within an existing commercial establishment.

Consultation, planning and implementation phases: Consultations were held between the Health Promotion Department, family planning and commercial outlets, resulting in the establishment of the UK's first sexual health service within commercial premises. Once the clinic had been operational for 6 months, a single researcher carried out semi-structured interviews with 13 staff representing all levels within the partner organisations.

Post-implementation interviews: There was agreement by all interviewees on the objectives of the clinic. The problems encountered during the establishment of the service were with the legislation pertaining to pharmacies and the adverse press coverage of a minority public view of the provision of sexual health services to young people. No respondent identified conflict between the aims of the clinic and the strategic objectives of their organisation.

Recommendations: Common aims are imperative for successful interagency working. Wider initial consultations may have helped to identify potential problems and confirm common aims at an earlier stage of the development of the project. The involvement of senior management may also have improved the smooth running of the project.

Document Type: Research article

Affiliations: 1: SCMO, Family Planning and Reproductive Health Care, The Sandyford Initiative, Glasgow, UK 2: Senior Health Promotion Officer, Greater Glasgow Health Board, Glasgow, UK 3: Primary Care Services Manager, Boots the Chemist, Glasgow, UK 4: Clinical Director, The Sandyford Initiative, Glasgow, UK 5: Consultant in Family Planning and Reproductive Health Care, The Sandyford Initiative, Glasgow, UK

Public and private collaboration in establishing a young person's sexual health clinic in a commercial setting