Telemedicine Intention, Need, Expectations, and Perceived Challenges Among Women With Osteoporosis

This observational, cross-sectional study investigates the actual needs, preferences, and expectations of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis regarding the use of telemedicine services. Osteoporosis is a chronic, progressive condition characterized by decreased bone density and increased fracture risk, which can significantly impair mobility, and overall quality of life. Access to ongoing medical support is crucial for these patients, yet many-particularly older individuals-encounter substantial barriers such as physical limitations, transportation difficulties, limited caregiver availability, or lack of local specialist services.

Telemedicine has gained prominence as a solution to these challenges, offering remote access to healthcare services through technologies like video consultations, telephone check-ins, and online education tools. While telemedicine has been widely implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, there remains a lack of data on how women with postmenopausal osteoporosis view these services, what features they find most useful, and what obstacles they anticipate.

The primary objective of this study is to evaluate which types of telemedicine services are most needed and preferred by this patient population-for example, support related to medication use, exercise programs, and dietary advice. The study also aims to determine whether specific sociodemographic and clinical variables-such as age, education level, marital status-are associated with participants' willingness to use telemedicine and their actual need for it.

To examine age-related differences, participants will be divided into two subgroups: those under 65 years of age and those aged 65 or older. These subgroups will be compared across multiple domains, including their interest in using telemedicine, actual necessity for such services (calculated according to parameters living alone, not driving/owning a car, having a chronic disease other than osteoporosis), expectations for care delivery, preferred content areas, and potential barriers (such as lack of internet access or digital literacy).

Data will be collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire developed through expert consultation and adapted from validated tools in previous telehealth research. The questionnaire includes closed-ended questions and will be distributed during routine outpatient visits at two regional hospitals. Participants will be informed about the purpose of the study and assured of full anonymity and confidentiality. Completing the questionnaire is voluntary and is estimated to take approximately 10-15 minutes.

By identifying telemedicine-related needs specific to postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, this study seeks to support the creation of age-appropriate, patient-centered telehealth models. These findings may also inform healthcare providers and policymakers on how to design and implement accessible, effective, and equitable digital healthcare interventions to improve long-term disease management and patient outcomes in this growing patient population.

Inclusion criteria

Female patients aged 50 to 85 years. Diagnosed with osteoporosis (based on clinical evaluation and prior diagnosis). Able to understand and complete the study questionnaire (adequate cognitive function).

Willing and able to provide informed consent and voluntarily participate in the study.

Exclusion criteria

Presence of severe medical conditions that may interfere with participation, including:

Severe cardiac diseases (e.g., advanced heart failure). Severe pulmonary diseases (e.g., advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).

Advanced-stage cancer or other life-limiting illnesses. Cognitive impairment preventing understanding or completion of the questionnaire.

Participation in another clinical or interventional study at the same time. Recent significant trauma (physical or psychological) that may interfere with study participation.

Individuals who cannot understand the study goals and risks, or who refuse informed consent.