# TELEHEALTH and digital health platforms in promoting access to sexual reproductive health self care among youth: A case of rocket health services in Uganda

## TL;DR

This study explores how digital health platforms in Uganda help youth access sexual reproductive health (SRH) self-care services, finding that e-commerce is the most used method.

## Contribution

The study provides insights into youth preferences and challenges in using digital platforms for SRH self-care in a low-income country context.

## Key findings

- E-commerce platforms were the most utilized (49%) for SRH self-care among youth in Uganda.
- Contraception products were predominantly accessed through digital platforms (44%).
- Teleconsultations and counseling helped build trust and safe use of SRH products.

## Abstract

Sexual Reproductive Health (SRH) self-care offers a pathway for low income countries to advance towards Universal Health Coverage by empowering individuals, families, and communities to prioritize their SRH needs independently of healthcare providers. Facilitating access to SRH products is crucial for embracing self-care and digital health technologies hold promise for enhancing accessibility. This study explored the role played by rocket health digital platforms in enhancing accessibility to SRH self-care products among youth in Uganda. Employing a cross-sectional design with a mixed-method approach, the study involved key informant interviews with youth who had purchased SRH self-care products from Rocket Health in 2022, as well as key staff at Rocket Health. Quantitative data were extracted from Rocket Health’s Electronic Medical Records covering the period from January 2022 to December 2022.More males (57%) utilized digital platforms for SRH compared to females (43%). The highest utilization was via the E-commerce platform (49%) while the least was via the voice call platforms (4%). A notable portion of youth (30%) still relied on visiting the pharmacy. Contraception products were predominantly consumed through digital platforms (44%), whereas self-testing were less frequently utilized (14%). The study also identified key resources such as the digital infrastructure that maximize the potential of digital health platforms in enhancing SRH self-care. By gaining insights into the digital infrastructure, preferences, barriers, and financial considerations associated with accessing SRH self-care services through digital platforms, targeted interventions such as access to contraceptives, awareness programs, prevention and treatment of Sexual Transmitted Infections can be developed to promote positive SRH outcomes among youth.

This study examines the role of digital health platforms in promoting sexual and reproductive health (SRH) self-care among youth in Uganda. Platforms such as e-commerce shops, USSD, voice calls, and social media have shown potential to increase access to SRH services by providing convenience, confidentiality, and flexibility. We focused on Rocket Health, a leading telehealth provider in Uganda that integrates these digital platforms to deliver SRH self-care. Using a mixed-methods design, we analyzed service utilization data from electronic medical records and conducted interviews with youth clients and staff. The findings indicate that e-commerce was the most frequently used channel for obtaining SRH products, while teleconsultations and counseling enhanced safe use and built client trust. Contraceptives and sildenafil emerged as the most commonly accessed products, highlighting both opportunities for expanded access and challenges related to potential misuse. Overall, the study demonstrates the promise of digital health in expanding youth-friendly SRH services and underscores the importance of safeguards, such as mandatory prescriptions and integrated health education, to ensure responsible use. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners aiming to scale up safe, equitable digital SRH services in Uganda and similar contexts.