Examining e-Health literacy and the digital divide in an underserved population in Hawai'i

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Digital Health
• Public Health

Background:

• Internet use for health information is common, with benefits tied to e-Health literacy.
• e-Health literacy involves seeking, understanding, appraising, and applying electronic health information.
• Understanding technology's role in health outcomes is crucial, especially in underserved areas.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore technology utilization, the digital divide, and health outcomes in underserved populations.
• To assess e-Health literacy levels among individuals with diabetes in a Medically Underserved Area in Hawai'i.
• To identify barriers to accessing and utilizing electronic health information.

Main Methods:

• Conducted four focus group interviews with 25 volunteers diagnosed with diabetes.
• Focused on participants residing in a Medically Underserved Area in Hawai'i.
• Gathered qualitative data on technology use, digital divide experiences, and health information seeking behaviors.

Main Results:

• A generally low e-Health literacy rate was identified within the study population.
• While 64% had some Internet access, daily usage was very low (1%).
• Key barriers included a lack of knowledge and skills for retrieving health information online, indicating a usage gap over an access gap.

Conclusions:

• Access to technology does not guarantee its effective use for health information.
• A new digital divide is emerging, characterized by difficulties in information retrieval and application.
• A multi-pronged strategy is essential to enhance e-Health literacy and improve health outcomes in underserved populations.