An exploratory study of patients’ experiences with and reasons for using one virtual-only telecontraceptive platform in the United States in 2020–2021
摘要
Telecontraception, whereby one uses a website or mobile application to access contraceptive care, has grown over time, with an increasing number of virtual-only platforms offering this service. There are limited data on user experiences with virtual-only telecontraception, particularly among first-time telecontraception users. The aim of this exploratory study was to understand individuals’ experiences receiving contraceptive services from one virtual-only telecontraceptive platform.
MethodsIndividuals aged 18–49 years who had used the platform for contraceptive care for the first time between March 2020-December 2021 were eligible for our online survey. We calculated descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and Fisher’s exact tests to assess background characteristics, reasons for platform use, methods requested and prescribed, and satisfaction.
ResultsAmong the 244 participants in our sample, most were first-time telecontraceptive users of any platform (76.2%) and had previously used short-acting hormonal contraception (77.9%). One-third (36.5%) reported COVID-19 played a role in their decision to use the platform. Most used the platform for convenience (81.2%) and to save time (53.7%) or money (43.0%) by not visiting a clinic, and similar proportions reported convenience (81.2%), affordability (55.3%), and the ability to get the method quickly (52.9%) as features they liked best about the platform. Uninsured participants (versus insured) were more likely to report using the platform to avoid clinic fees; insured individuals (versus uninsured) to save time and avoid inconvenient clinic hours; students (versus non-students) and young people (aged 18–24 years versus older age groups) for privacy; and Black participants (versus other races/ethnicities) for convenience. Most participants were very or somewhat satisfied with the service (86.1%) and would use telecontraception again (82.4%).
ConclusionsMost participants were satisfied with their virtual-only telecontraception experience and reported it was convenient and affordable. However, our exploratory study highlights potential disparities in accessing telecontraceptive services among first-time users of short-acting hormonal contraception, young people aged 18–24, minors, and those without insurance. Future research should explore what access needs telecontraceptive care may be addressing and what more is needed to improve access to contraceptive care in the United States.