madman
Super Moderator
Dr. Justin Dubin is a board-certified urologist and passionate advocate for men's health education. After completing his training at institutions including Johns Hopkins, University of Miami, and Northwestern, he now practices at Memorial Health Care Systems in South Florida. As the host of the "Man Up: A Doctor's Guide to Men's Health" podcast, Dr. Dubin works to destigmatize men's health conversations and provide accurate medical information.
The men's health landscape has dramatically transformed with the rise of direct-to-consumer (DTC) telehealth platforms. These services, which saw a 15,000% increase between 2017-2019 and continued growth during the COVID-19 pandemic, have made medications for conditions like erectile dysfunction more accessible. The primary appeal? Privacy. Dr. Dubin's research shows that men prioritize privacy even above cost and convenience when seeking treatment.
While these platforms offer benefits like convenience, reduced stigma, and easier access for those with limited healthcare options, Dr. Dubin emphasizes the importance of asking key questions: What's my problem? What am I hoping to achieve? Who am I getting treatment from? What's my next step?
Concerns exist about the quality of care through some DTC platforms. Dr. Dubin's "secret shopper" study revealed that six out of seven DTC testosterone providers prescribed medication despite his stated fertility concerns and normal testosterone levels. Only half mentioned the fertility risks associated with testosterone therapy.
Dr. Dubin believes DTC platforms and traditional urology can coexist beneficially. Many patients use both services—getting medications through DTC platforms while consulting urologists for comprehensive care. This hybrid approach allows physicians to identify other potential health issues that might be missed in the DTC model, such as diabetes, fertility issues, or other underlying conditions.
For men using DTC platforms, Dr. Dubin's message is clear: it's perfectly acceptable to also consult with a urologist if you have questions or concerns. The future of men's healthcare isn't an either/or proposition—it's an integrated approach that leverages the convenience of DTC services with the comprehensive care of traditional medicine.
