Perspectives of Spanish-Speaking Women on Telemedicine for Contraceptive Care

The use of telemedicine for reproductive health increased during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, but people with language barriers are less likely than others to use it. The objective of this study is to describe the perspective of Spanish-speaking immigrant women on the use of telemedicine to access reproductive health services, including contraception.

We conducted a qualitative study using in-person and virtual focus groups with primarily Spanish-speaking reproductive-aged women who reside in a suburban area outside of New York City. We recruited participants through flyers, social media, and a partnership with a community-based organization. We analyzed interview transcripts using grounded theory methodology.

Between May and November 2022, we conducted six in-person and two virtual focus groups with a total of 58 participants. Most participants were from Mexico and Guatemala and had limited experience with telemedicine. Participants recognized that telemedicine has practical advantages, including economic ones. However, many expressed concerns about the quality of virtual health care, which they felt led to "guesswork," because it is not possible to conduct a physical examination. When prompted, participants recognized that telemedicine could be a viable option to provide information about different contraceptive options and to initiate some contraceptive methods such as pills. Low technological literacy and lack of access to cell service were often cited as barriers to using telemedicine.

To ensure equal access to telemedicine among underserved populations, it is important to understand their needs and perspectives. Educating prospective users about the value and limitations of telemedicine and overcoming technological barriers are essential steps in ensuring digital health equity.