is any type of touching in the genital area out of the question when you have hsv2

i have recently been diagnosed with HSV 2. my health care provider has given me very little information.I would like to know what exactly does safe sex mean besides the use of condoms and dental dams..? Can my partner and I touch each other in the genital area? I am on suppessive theray and my partner at this point has tested negative.  There will be another test in Jan. I feel very in the dark as my partners Doctor as well as mine is taking a very casual approach to this issue.  It came as a shock as I am 50 years old and before I began my relationship I was asked  my family practice Doctor  that I  be tested for all STD's so I can go into this relationship with a clear mind, and open heart.  Much to my surprise when I asked for the results back in March I was told I was fine. Later last month I found out by my GYN that I had indeed had a herpes ulcer and had HSV 2 ....When I called the family practice Dr. to inquire about the test in March, he indeed said he felt there was no reason to test for Herpes. Surprises all around and am trying to educate myself on this new turn of events.

thanks for the help