Evaluating E-Visit Utilization and Efficacy for Contraception in a Large Integrated Health Care System [ID 1192]

INTRODUCTION: Asynchronous telemedicine, also known as e-visits, allows patients to receive health care without real-time interactions. In 2023, Kaiser Permanente Northern California (KPNC) introduced e-visits for contraceptive care in addition to traditional modalities such as phone, video, and office visits. However, limited research exists on the effectiveness of e-visits for this purpose. This study is the first to examine a large, real-world population seeking contraception through asynchronous e-visits and scheduled telemedicine compared to traditional in-person care. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study evaluated contraceptive appointments at KPNC’s obstetrics and gynecology department in 2023. The study included women aged 18–50 with active KPNC membership and analyzed outcomes such as time to contraceptive order, medication pickup, and follow-up across visit modalities (office, phone, video, and e-visit). Covariates included age, race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, language, and comorbidity burden. RESULTS: Among 23,122 encounters, e-visits accounted for 13.7%, with telemedicine modalities (phone, video, and e-visits) comprising 73% of all visits. E-visits demonstrated the highest contraceptive order rate (92.0%) and medication pickup rate (73.2%). Notably, the time from booking to order was 11.3 days faster for e-visits compared to office visits, and pickups occurred 9.5 days sooner. Women using e-visits were more likely Black, Hispanic, or Asian and less likely to have comorbidities. Younger women (18–25) were the highest users of e-visits (43.7%), whereas usage decreased with age, especially among women aged 31–35 (17.5%). CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS: E-visits offer a timely and efficient option for contraceptive care, with fewer follow-up needs. By improving access and convenience, e-visits enhance patient-centered contraceptive care.