Consumer Health Information for Rural Communities
Jane Morgan-Daniel1, Margaret Ansell2, Lauren E Adkins3
1Community Engagement & Health Literacy Liaison Librarian, University of Florida Health Science Center Libraries, Communicore Building, SW Archer Road, Gainesville, Florida, 32610-0206.
Journal of Consumer Health on the Internet
|June 19, 2026
Summary
Rural communities face health disparities due to limited access to reliable health information. This resource guide offers tools and strategies to improve health information accessibility and usage for rural residents and organizations.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Communication
- Rural Health Disparities
Background:
- Rural communities often face significant health disparities.
- Barriers to reliable health information exacerbate these disparities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To recommend resources and strategies for improving health information access in rural areas.
- To enhance awareness and utilization of authoritative health information.
Main Methods:
- Highlighting needs assessment tools.
- Showcasing community outreach materials.
- Featuring consumer health websites.
Main Results:
- Identified key resources like the Rural Health Information Hub.
- Included tools such as Cultivate Safety.
- Promoted the Rural Community Toolbox for practical application.
Conclusions:
- Accessible and authoritative health information is crucial for rural populations.
- Strategic resource utilization can mitigate health disparities.
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