The University Hospital Zurich Offers a Medical Online Consultation Service for Men With Intimate Health Problems

Area of Science:

• Medical Informatics
• Public Health
• Men's Health

Background:

• The University Hospital of Zurich has provided a text-based Medical Online Consultation Service since 1999.
• This service allows anonymous user inquiries to tele-doctors regarding health concerns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize male users with intimate health problems seeking online consultation.
• To analyze the content of their inquiries, the medical advice provided, and user satisfaction.
• To demonstrate the benefits of online services for medical laymen, particularly men with sensitive health issues.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study analyzing 5.1% of 3,305 inquiries from 2008-2010.
• Utilized International Classification of Diseases-10 and International Classification of Primary Care codes for intimate and sexual health problems in men.
• Employed MAXQDA software for content analysis based on Mayring's inductive category development.

Main Results:

• Average user age was 40; 63.1% had no comorbidities, and 62.5% were first-time consults for intimate issues.
• The penis was the primary organ of concern (64.3%), with 30.4% inquiring about sexually transmitted diseases.
• A doctor visit was recommended in 74.4% of cases, and the problem-solving rating was very good.

Conclusions:

• The online service is primarily used by younger men without comorbidities and prior doctor contact for intimate health concerns.
• The anonymous, teleconsultation setting offers personalized medical advice and decision support, enhancing health literacy.
• Teleconsultation is a valuable tool for empowering patients and improving access to care for sensitive health issues.