Background:
Recent reports evaluating PN efforts among MSM have observed poor outcomes. However, the validity of traditional PN disposition codes is not known, possibly leading to overly pessimistic assessments of PN outcomes

Objective:
To evaluate PN practices among MSM with gonorrhea or chlamydial infection, assess the utility of offering MSM PN assistance, and compare patient self-reported PN outcomes with those recorded using DIS disposition codes.

Method:
We reviewed the records of all MSM with gonorrhea or chlamydial infection interviewed by Public Health – Seattle & King County for purposes of PN in 2004. Men were asked to indicate whether each of their sex partners were already notified or treated at time of interview, and were offered PN assistance.

Result:
DIS interviewed 409 of 542 MSM with gonorrhea or chlamdyia. These men reported 2,677 sex partners, but provided information about only 634. Two hundred seventeen index cases (53%) reported notifying at least one partner. Index cases reported that 303 partners had been notified, and that 175 were treated; DIS disposition codes documented the treatment of 113 partners. Only 35 index cases (5%) requested DIS assistance contacting a partner. DIS notified and assured the treatment of 19 partners.

Conclusion:
Although MSM with gonorrhea or chlamydia seldom accept assistance notifying partners, they report higher levels of partner treatment than suggested by DIS disposition codes. The proportion of MSM who notify at least one sex partner is similar to that observed in heterosexuals with gonorrhea or chlamydial infection, though the proportion of all partners notified is much lower.

Implications:
Traditional DIS disposition codes may not adequately capture the outcomes of PN among MSM. Public health authorities should consider adopting different disposition codes that include index patient reports of PN as well as verified treatment outcomes.