Anticipating the potential for positive uptake and adaptation in the implementation of a publicly funded online STBBI testing service: a qualitative analysis

Abstract

Background: Online health services are a rapidly growing aspect of public health provision, including testing for sexually transmitted and other blood-borne infections (STBBI). Generally, healthcare providers, policymakers, and clients imbue online approaches with great positive potential (e.g., encouraging clients' agency; providing costeffective services to more clients). However, the promise of online health services may vary across contexts and be perceived in negative or ambiguous ways (e.g., risks to 'gold standard' care provision; loss of provider control over an intervention; uncertainty related to budget implications). This study examines attitudes and perceptions regarding the development of a novel online STBBI testing service in Vancouver, Canada. We examine the perceptions about the intervention's potential by interviewing practitioners and planners who were engaged in the development and initial implementation of this testing service.

The role of telemedicine in gynecologic healthcare

“…12 Telemedicine and care for STIs Chabot et al interviewed stakeholders involved in a novel testing option for STIs. 15 Risks for an STI were evaluated in an online assessment followed by specimen collection at a lab. Nurses followed up with anyone who tested positive.…”