Background:
The Partner Services Program in Minnesota developed a survey to assess client satisfaction with Partner Services (PS)/Partner Counseling and Referral Services (PCRS). The survey was conducted with individuals newly infected with STDs and HIV from February to December 2004.

Objective:
The purpose of the project was to improve client-related practices of DIS in order to improve STD and HIV intervention outcomes.

Method:
The survey assessed PS and PCRS client perceptions of the degree to which DIS address core topics during client interviews, the manner in which DIS provided services, and whether the client had plans to make changes as a result of their conversation with the DIS.
DIS offered the survey to each person interviewed after explaining the purpose of the survey. Clients who agreed to participate were given a copy of the survey and a pre-addressed and postage paid envelope.


Result:
DIS conducted 303 client interviews. 120 clients (40%) were offered a survey. 75 completed surveys were returned to MDH. This represents 25% of the total number of interviews conducted during the time period and a 63% return rate of those given the survey.
In general, survey findings were positive. Overall, clients strongly agreed or somewhat agreed that DIS covered core interview topics in a professional, respectful, and knowledgeable way. 17% indicated that they would not make any changes in their life as a result of their conversation with DIS; 80 % indicated they would make at least one change.


Conclusion:
Survey results indicate that the partner services provided to clients are well received.
There is a need to develop a mechanism to assure that more clients are offered the survey.


Implications:
Because little is known about client satisfaction with partner services, surveying clients can be used to improve client-related practices and learn about client needs.