Patient Portal Engagement Affects Postvasectomy Semen Analysis Completion

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Men's Health
• Public Health

Background:

• Telehealth consultations for vasectomy are increasingly preferred by patients.
• Postvasectomy semen analysis (PVSA) is crucial for confirming sterilization.
• Ensuring patient compliance with PVSA is essential for successful vasectomy outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify factors influencing the completion rate of postvasectomy semen analysis (PVSA).
• To assess the impact of telehealth prevasectomy counseling on PVSA completion.
• To determine the role of patient engagement with electronic instructions and clinic communication in PVSA compliance.

Main Methods:

• A study included 371 men aged 19+ who underwent telehealth prevasectomy consultations and in-office vasectomies.
• Data on demographics, relationship status, and clinic distance were collected via electronic medical records.
• Patient engagement with electronic preprocedure instructions and subsequent clinic messaging were assessed as predictors of PVSA completion.

Main Results:

• Only 45.6% of men completed their PVSA.
• Opening electronic instructions before vasectomy did not significantly affect PVSA completion rates (46.1% vs. 44.4%).
• Men who contacted the clinic after their consultation were more likely to complete PVSA (62%) compared to those who did not (41%).

Conclusions:

• Patient engagement with electronic portals, particularly through active communication with the clinic, is a key factor in PVSA completion.
• Healthcare providers can leverage patient portal engagement data to develop targeted interventions for improving PVSA compliance.
• Enhanced patient engagement strategies are vital for ensuring successful sterilization confirmation after vasectomy.