Increasing Sexual Self-Efficacy Among College Students Through Telehealth Consultation: A Case Management Approach

Unsafe sex is one of the main risk factors for young people, ages 18 to 24, in contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) [1]. Recently, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) stated that nearly half (46.8%) of young adults surveyed across 42 states, had engaged in sexual intercourse and were currently sexually active [1]. This paper summarizes the role that case management, using telehealth, can play on increasing sexual communication self-efficacy, ultimately reducing STIs on campus.

After testing positive for an STI (N=11), the implementation of a telehealth appointment with a nurse took place in conjunction with the administration of the Sexual Communication Self-Efficacy Scale (SCSES), before and after the sexual health education. The outcomes revealed that young adults, ages 18 to 24, already possess a high level of sexual self-efficacy, although they lack knowledge of their personal risk for contracting STIs. Furthermore, themes gathered during the telehealth appointment, including

• The desire for easy access.

• The need for support from a trusted health care provider, validates the desire of this population to pursue sexual health appointments and STI checks if a telehealth platform is available.

Keywords: Telehealth; Sexually transmitted infections (STIs); Case management; Self-efficacy; Young adults; Health promotion