An interactive, computer-based program to educate patients about genital herpes

Background and Objectives: Education and counseling constitute a substantial portion of management of patients with genital herpes. Innovative methods for education about genital herpes are needed. Goal: To test the ability of an interactive, computer-based program to educate patients about genital herpes. Study Design: Persons seeking care at five urban offices were asked to participate. A knowledge test about genital herpes was administered before and after participation. Participants' satisfaction was assessed with a questionnaire. Results: Four hundred thirty-five participants enrolled, and 428 completed the herpes knowledge test. Of six questions evaluated, a statistically significant increase in the proportion of correct answers was noted on five of six questions. Fifty-one percent of participants answered all the questions correctly after the program, compared with 39% before the program. Satisfaction with the program was very high. Conclusions: Innovative, computer-based programs can provide education and assist in the management of chronic sexually transmitted infections.