Preferences for the format of text messages containing results of online screening for sexually transmitted infections: a service evaluation.

We conducted an online survey to examine the preferences for receiving a text message with results of a test for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as part of online self-sampling service at Solent NHS Trust. Findings showed that if all tests were negative, participants would prefer to receive one text message. However, in the event of a positive result, a large majority (86%) would prefer to receive a separate text with the name of the STI for which the test was positive. Similarly, three-quarters (74%) of participants would prefer to receive multiple texts indicating which test was inconclusive and required an additional sample. The results of this survey support a change of practice to sending multiple text messages with the results of online self-sampling that include the names of STIs.