Barriers and Facilitators to Telemedicine Contraception Among Patients Who Speak Spanish: A Qualitative Study [ID 2692431

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The objective of this study was to evaluate the barriers and facilitators of telemedicine for contraception care among patients who speak Spanish using a community-based participatory research approach. METHODS: We interviewed 20 patients after telemedicine and in-person contraception visits conducted in Spanish at Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest in Southern California. Two coders analyzed the data using content analysis. RESULTS: Most participants had some college education (14, 65%) and public insurance (18, 90%). Most chose a short-acting contraceptive method (11, 55%). Five key themes were identified. 1) Participants reported less comfort with video technology and a preference to not be seen during the appointment, therefore preferring audio-only for telemedicine visits. 2) Participants did not report difficulty with Spanish interpreters using telemedicine. 3) Telemedicine has conveniences related to time, work, childcare, and transportation but may have inconveniences related to method receipt. 4) Preference for comprehensive care with physical examination and familiarity of the in-clinic model motivated people who sought in-person care rather than technology barriers with telemedicine. 5) There is trust in the privacy and confidentiality of the visits, but privacy at home for the individual may affect choice for in-person care. CONCLUSION: Many patients who speak Spanish preferred audio-only technology for telemedicine contraception visits. Use of interpreters and technology were not perceived barriers for care. There is a need for prospective studies comparing the quality of telemedicine among patients who speak Spanish for contraception care.