Related Experiment Videos
How much does the public know about health reform?
R J Blendon1, D E Altman, J M Benson
1Harvard School of Public Health, Boston.
The Journal of American Health Policy
|December 9, 1993
Summary
Americans show significant knowledge gaps regarding health reform issues and proposed solutions. This lack of understanding makes the public more susceptible to political messaging and media influence.
Area of Science:
- Health Policy
- Public Health Communication
Background:
- Federal health reform legislation was anticipated in 1994.
- Public understanding of health reform issues was a critical concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess public understanding of health reform.
- To identify knowledge gaps among adults regarding health reform problems and solutions.
Main Methods:
- Survey of 1,200 adults.
- Analysis of public comprehension of health reform.
Main Results:
- Major gaps identified in Americans' understanding of health reform problems.
- Limited public knowledge on how legislative proposals address health issues.
- Public concern focused on personal impact of health reform.
Conclusions:
- Public's lack of knowledge on health reform is significant.
- Political advertising, media, and education campaigns will heavily influence public opinion due to knowledge gaps.