Accepted for/Published in: JMIR Formative Research
Date Submitted: May 11, 2023
Open Peer Review Period: May 11, 2023 - Jul 6, 2023
Date Accepted: Jul 26, 2023
(closed for review but you can still tweet)
Web-Based, Mail-Order STI Testing Program: Qualitative Analysis of User Feedback
ABSTRACT
Background:
Incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is increasing in the U.S. Concerns around confidentiality, accessibility, and stigma continue to limit access to clinic-based STI testing, particularly for high-priority populations. IWantTheKit (IWTK) is an online platform that mails free, confidential, self-administered sample collection kits to screen for gonorrhea, chlamydia (genital and extra-genital sites), and vaginal trichomonas.
Objective:
This study aimed to describe users’ experience with IWTK, with the goal of optimizing reach and retention among high-priority populations by responding to user needs.
Methods:
Free-text entries were submitted by IWTK users via a confidential Contact Us page on the IWTK website from May 17, 2021, to January 31, 2022. All entries were de-identified. Two analysts coded these using a pre-defined codebook. Responses were summarized across key themes and ordering characteristics (home state, date).
Results:
Two hundred and fifty-four free-text entries were analyzed. Themes emerged relating to the functionality of the website and personal experiences using IWTK’s services. Users’ submissions included requests related to order status, address changes, replacement of old kits, clinical information (treatment options, report of symptoms), and reported risk behavior.
Conclusions:
Web-based, mail-order STI testing programs can utilize user feedback to optimize implementation and potentially expand reach and promote retention among high-priority populations.
Citation
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