Development and Implementation of STD Flowcharts

- A single, universally applicable model for STD flowcharts does not exist.

Local data on etiology and antimicrobial susceptibility are needed to design an effective flowchart. The validity and cost-effectiveness of different approaches can in many situations be estimated from the literature or assessed in special studies.

- Flowcharts should be validated in a field audit to assure efficacy.

Before the introduction of new flowcharts, feasibility and acceptability should be assessed in the given health infrastructure. This will validate acceptable levels of sensitivity and specificity.

- A flowchart will always be a compromise between diagnostic accuracy and technical and financial realities.