Adam Oyetunji Yusuf
Abstract
This study explores the health-seeking behaviour of adolescents who use telemedicine for the treatment of STDs, attempting to understand their motives, experiences, and the usefulness of this medium. This study took a descriptive survey research approach. The sample included 200 in-school adolescents aged 15 to 19 who had used telemedicine services for STD-related consultations in the previous year. The study inquired about demographics, STD awareness, perceptions and benefits of telemedicine. The quantitative data was examined with descriptive statistics. The study revealed several key findings regarding the health-seeking behaviour of adolescents using telemedicine for STD treatment including that: the knowledge about STD was high 2.96), perception of adolescents about telemedicine was positive 3.15), perceived benefit of utilizing telemedicine for treating sexually transmitted diseases in Nigeria was high 2.89). The study recommends enhancing telemedicine for teenage STD treatment by addressing technological limitations, increasing awareness, building trust, preserving confidentiality, and regularly assessing services. It is also recommended, among others, that governments, healthcare providers, and organizations should collaborate to provide affordable internet plans, distribute mobile devices, or establish community access points where adolescents can seek telemedicine consultations privately.