Engaging men in telehealth
Telehealth has been effective in overcoming common barriers that prevent men from seeking timely health care.
On this page:
Introducing telehealth to patients
While some men may be eager to use telehealth, others may have less experience using technology or may express concerns. Explain that telehealth can be private, convenient, and useful for many types of care, but it is not right for every condition. Before scheduling, explain:
- Which men’s health services can be provided by telehealth
- When an in-person visit may be needed
- How the patient will join the visit
- What technology the patient needs
- Who will be a part of the visit
- How the patient’s privacy will be protected
- What the patient should do if the connection does not work
Preparing patients for a telehealth visit
There are many ways you can help prepare your patients for a virtual visit. Before the visit you should consider:
- Digital literacy. Assess the patient’s level of digital proficiency.
- Technology access. Ensure the patient has access to needed technology, devices, and internet service. Make sure he knows how to use the technology.
- Privacy. Address patient concerns, including those related to privacy, safety, and confidentiality.
- Technical assistance. Familiarize patients with how the technology is used and what to expect from a telehealth visit.
You should also include these steps:
- Review instructions. Prior to the virtual visit, send information to the patient on how to connect and who to call if there are issues.
- Test the connection. Ask the patient to test the device, camera, microphone, and internet connection before the visit.
- Find a good location. Tell the patient to choose a private, well-lit place.
- Come prepared. Ask the patient to bring a medication list, test results, and questions.
During the visit
During a virtual visit, consider:
- Consent. Explain why consent is important and how it is used. Tell the patient what information can be shared and with whom.
- Communication. Emphasize discretion and that the patient is in control. Use clear communication.
- Patient participation. Promote shared decision-making and highlight the patient’s role in his own health.
You should also:
- Confirm details. Confirm the patient’s location and phone number.
- Be professional. Make sure to use a calm and respectful tone just as you would if the patient was in-person. Confirm that the patient can speak privately and make sure you are also in a secure location.
- Identify goals. Ask the patient what he is hoping to get out of the visit.
- Clarify next steps. Prior to the end of the appointment, make sure the patient understands what needs to be done next.
Education and Follow-Up
After the telehealth visit, have a clear plan for follow-up. This includes:
- Post-visit instructions. Review the care plan before the visit ends. Send written instructions that explain medications, home care, and other important information.
- Follow-up communication. Use a patient portal, text messages, phone call, or secure email to confirm the patient understands the care plan and knows the next steps.
- Next steps. Explain any needed referrals, lab tests, imaging, prescriptions, or follow-up visits. Tell the patient how and when these steps should be completed
- Patient feedback. Ask about the patient’s telehealth experience. Use this feedback to improve future visits.
Supporting patients who may be less likely to use telehealth
Some men may avoid care until symptoms affect work, family, or daily life. Telehealth outreach can help by making care feel easier to start. Consider these strategies:
- Offer early morning, evening, or lunch-hour telehealth appointments.
- Use mobile reminders.
- Send outreach messages that highlight the benefits of telehealth.
- Offer easy scheduling.
- Offer telehealth appointments for sensitive services such as behavioral health, sexual health, urinary symptoms, and erectile dysfunction care.
More information:
Preparing patients for telehealth — Health Resources and Services Administration
Introducing patients to telehealth — Health Resources and Services Administration
Getting patients set up with telehealth technology — Health Resources and Services Administration
Helping patients prepare for their telehealth appointment — Health Resources and Services Administration