Exploring Telemedicine Needs and Barriers in Women with Osteoporosis: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract

Background: Telemedicine (TM) offers opportunities for disease management; however, patient-centered expectations, priorities, and barriers remain insufficiently characterized.

Methods: A questionnaire assessed TM desire, expected benefits, topic preferences, and perceived barriers among women with osteoporosis. A telemedicine need score (TNS) was constructed based on living alone, inability to drive, and the presence of chronic illness. Associations were examined using chi-square and nonparametric tests and logistic regression.

Results: Among 197 women (mean age 65.2 years), the most frequently reported health-care-system challenges were difficulty obtaining appointments and limited time with physicians. More than half of the participants wanted to use TM, and most believed it could improve quality of life. The most frequently requested topics were medication-related information overall, and fracture prevention and risk factors for older ones (p = 0.040; odds ratio [OR] = 2.30). Older adults reported more barriers (limited internet/device access (p < 0.001; OR = 3.96) and difficulty using devices (p = 0.003; OR = 2.61)), and they were less ready/confident to engage in TM services (p < 0.001). A high TNS was more common among older adults (p < 0.001; OR = 2.91). In multivariable analysis, age ≥ 65 years (OR = 2.79) and unmarried status (OR = 1.86) were independently associated with higher odds of high TM need.

Conclusions: TM may address key gaps in osteoporosis care by supporting medication-related counseling and fracture-prevention education; however, age-related digital barriers may limit uptake. Osteoporosis-oriented TM programs should prioritize usability support and targeted education, particularly for adults aged ≥65 years.