Training needs of German healthcare professionals regarding sexual health and sex workers: Results of a nationwide, cross-sectional survey

Abstract

Abstract Background Sexual health is an important aspect of human well-being. In terms of sexual health and healthcare, sex workers might need more specialized care than others, given their higher risk for both discrimination and various sexually transmitted diseases. Yet, however, little is known about the quality of healthcare professionals’ training regarding sexual health and healthcare of sex workers in Germany. Methods In an online survey, 130 physicians, 63 psychotherapists, and 154 medical students reported their perceived quality of training regarding sexual health problems in all their patients and regarding sex workers’ health issues specifically. Results A substantial share of respondents reported to have experienced inadequate training regarding both sexual health problems in general and specific issues concerning sex workers. However, most respondents reported feeling rather comfortable when dealing with these topics. There was a positive correlation between feeling comfortable when treating sexual health problems/ sex workers and the perceived training on these topics. Conclusions The results of this study indicate that sexual health issues and sex workers’ specific healthcare requirements are not sufficiently addressed in the curricula of German healthcare professionals. Future adaptations of these curricula might be necessary.