Telehealth for sexual and reproductive health issues: a qualitative study of experiences of accessing care during COVID-19

Background Medicare, the health insurance system underpinning free healthcare in Australia, introduced free telehealth items in 2020 in response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Their uptake among healthcare providers was significant, including among general practitioners and sexual health services. Here, we report people's experiences of accessing sexual and reproductive health (SRH)-related care via telehealth collected as part of a survey exploring the impact of COVID on SRH health. Methods This study utilises qualitative data from two online surveys conducted in 2020. Surveys were advertised through social media and professional and personal networks. Anyone aged >= 18 years and living in Australia was eligible to participate. Respondents were asked whether they accessed care for their SRH via telehealth. A free-text question asking for further detail about their experience was analysed using content analysis. Results A total of 114/1070 respondents (10.7%) accessed healthcare services via telehealth for SRH-related reasons within the previous 4 weeks. Three themes were identified from 78 free-text comments: (1) accessibility and convenience of telehealth; (2) appropriateness of telehealth for SRH issues; and (3) connecting and communicating with clinicians via telehealth. Respondents had a wide range of experiences. Telehealth improved access to services for some participants, and it was appropriate for some, but not all SRH issues. Difficulties connecting with clinicians on both an interpersonal and technical level was a key barrier to a satisfactory patient experience. Conclusions Telehealth can offer a viable alternative to face-to-face care, providing patients can overcome key connection and communication barriers.