Abstract Preview
Abstract
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Title “It depends on how you absorb what you read”: ways public health system users perceive health-related information online |
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Type Oral Presentation Only |
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Theme Global Health Literacy Summit 2021 |
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Topic Digital and technological health literacy |
Authors
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Main Author Livia Fernandes1 |
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Presenting Author Livia Fernandes1 |
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Co-Author Karime Andrade Mescouto3 Bruno Saragiotto1 2 |
Authors' Institution
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Department / Institution / Country Physiotherapy / Universidade Cidade de São Paulo (UNICID) / Brazil (Brasil)1 School of Public Health / Institute for Musculoskeletal Health / Australia2 University of Queensland / University of Queensland / Australia3 |
Content
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Abstract Content (abstracts should be written in Size 11 font, Arial font style) Background: The internet is an attractive source of information with enormous amount of data and easy access. Its use for health-related purposes has increased in the past years; however, the overabundance of information led the world to a health infodemic. The COVID-19 outbreak has aggravated it with “fake news” and misinformation polarizing the public debate. Currently, little is known with regards digital health literacy levels and the behavior of users when using the internet to answer health questions, especially for low-mid income countries where socioeconomic and health inequities are substantial. Objectives: To investigate enablers and barriers perceived by users of the Brazilian public health system when seeking for health-related information on the internet. Methods: We used a qualitative interview design with 30 users of a Brazilian public healthcare facility. The following topics were addressed in the interview guide: what is considered health-related information, from where the information comes from, how the information is accessed (devices and vocabulary used), how the information is understood, to what extent the information can be trusted, and how the information from the internet appears in discussions with healthcare practitioners. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data analysis was performed using an inductive thematic analysis. Results: Preliminary analysis showed that reasons for seeking information online included the need for clarification after a consultation with health professional and/or sudden onset/flares up of symptoms. Information acquired online by users is not always shared during health encounters, mainly due to short time and lack of acceptance from healthcare professionals. Users usually search using key words (e.g. name of a specific medication/condition) or questions concerning users’ symptoms/condition (e.g. what is the course of stroke?). The extent to which users believe in the information is linked to the frequency they find similar information across different sources and also the presence of favorable commentaries that seems to be written by real people. Videos recorded by accredited health professionals and reading materials with figures were identified as promoters of better understanding. Conclusion: Confirmation bias can misguide searches for health-related information online. Healthcare professionals remain the reference for the provision of health-related information. |
Requires Audio or Video system for Presentation?: Yes
