Photodiagnosis of genital herpes and warts within a specialist online sexual health service: an observational (mixed methods) study of user experience and clinical outcomes

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a pilot, free, online photodiagnosis service for genital herpes and warts with postal treatment delivered by a specialist digital sexual health service.

Setting: An online sexual health service available free of charge in South East London, UK.

Participants: Routinely collected data from 237 users of the pilot service during the study period and qualitative interviews with a purposive sample of 15 users.

Intervention: A pilot, free, online photodiagnosis service for genital herpes and warts with postal treatment delivered by a specialist digital sexual health service.

Primary and secondary outcome measures: Proportion of users who successfully uploaded photographs and the proportion diagnosed, treated and referred to face-to-face clinical services. User experience of this service.

Results: The service was accessed by 237 users during the study period with assessment possible for 86% of users based on the photographs provided. A diagnosis of genital herpes or warts was made for 40.5% and 89.6% were subsequently treated through the service. Eighteen per cent were diagnosed as normal/not needing treatment and 42% were signposted to clinic for further clinical assessment.Qualitative data showed that users felt able and willing to provide genital images for diagnosis. Those who were treated or reassured expressed high satisfaction with the service, valuing the convenience, discreetness and support provided. However, users, particularly those who required referral to other services requested more personal and detailed communication when a clinical diagnosis is given remotely.

Conclusions: Findings suggest that online photodiagnosis was feasible and acceptable. However, effective and acceptable management of those who require referral needs careful remote communication.

Keywords: public health; qualitative research; sexual medicine.