Healthcare Provider Perspectives of COVID-19's Impact on Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health Services: A Qualitative Study
Abstract
Introduction: Despite evidence from literature demonstrating COVID-19's multifaceted health impacts, few studies examine its effect on adolescent sexual and reproductive health (SRH). This study investigates COVID-19's impact on adolescent SRH services through in-depth interviews (IDIs) with healthcare providers in a Virginia children's healthcare system.
Methods: We employed a purposive sampling method to recruit key informants for IDIs using three sampling criteria: 1) aged 18 years old and above; 2) employed at the children's healthcare system and holding a M.D., D.O., P.A., or N.P. degree, and 3) provided an informed consent. As of May 2024, semi-structured IDIs have been conducted with 10 key-informants via Zoom by trained medical students. Thematic analysis was performed using an inductive coding process. Recruitment continues through the summer of 2024 with an anticipated sample size of 25 key informants.
Results: Pediatric healthcare providers (N=10) universally observed a decline in adolescent SRH services amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Most commonly, providers cited telehealth constraints impeding the ability to conduct thorough physical examinations (N=6) as a major barrier. Postponement of gynecological care (N=4), interruptions in STD testing (N=3), delays in vaccine administration (N=3), and missed opportunities for reproductive health counseling (N=2) were additional barriers identified in adolescent SRH provision. Concerns persist about long-term impacts on adolescent SRH, with providers anticipating ongoing challenges post-pandemic.
Conclusion: Our study found unanimous reports from pediatric providers of decreased adolescent SRH services during COVID-19. Interruptions in STD testing, delayed vaccines, and missed counseling underscore the need for targeted interventions to mitigate long-term effects.