Online men's health care with a doctor you choose

Erectile dysfunction impacts millions of men across the United States, although most don't talk openly about their struggles. Patients can feel uncomfortable bringing up their erectile issues with their in-person primary care provider, who may be someone they've seen for many years.

Luckily, there are many options to help address this common men's health issue — and HealthTap's team of online primary care doctors can discuss or prescribe various options.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) meds aren't suitable for everyone, though. During video visits, our doctors will also discuss pre-existing health conditions, as some may be a contraindication to having a category of medications prescribed.

That's part of why it is so crucial for patients to work with an experienced health professional who understands men's bodies. Additionally, an in-person exam of the genitals, heart, circulation, and other parts of the body by one's non-HealthTap doctor may be needed before a man can be started on ED medications.

We at HealthTap have doctors who are well-versed in the types of health and wellness issues that men deal with. For example, we're aware that heart disease is the leading cause of death for U.S. men and that men have a higher risk of colon cancer than women have. Health screenings and preventive care can help reduce both risks, especially when done by a primary care doctor with men's health issues in mind.

Other men's health issues that our doctors can evaluate and help manage include:

• Athlete's foot
• Chlamydia
• Hair loss
• Herpes prevention or treatment
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Sexual health concerns (erectile dysfunction, performance anxiety, premature ejaculation)
• Skin concerns (acne, rashes, rosacea)
• Strains and sprains

There are also a few treatment options and health services that HealthTap's doctors generally cannot offer — such as HIV medications, low testosterone treatment, prescription smoking cessation and workplace injuries.

Urinary leakage can happen regardless of the age or gender of the person, although the reasons for that incontinence will vary. A HealthTap doctor can help patients rule out problems like urinary tract infections (UTIs) and discuss other possible causes. An in-person urologist may be needed for more complicated health concerns, such as an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia) or prostate cancer.

Plus, regular contact with a HealthTap primary care provider via video visits may help catch these health issues before they become larger problems that significantly impact one's quality of life. Your HealthTap doctor can provide personalized guidance, conduct appropriate testing, and help you make informed decisions to protect your well-being.