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Cui J. Measuring the adoption of internet and communication technologies among practitioners in routine disability services: a stepped inclusive approach. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38949182 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2024.2367080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Existing measurements of the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) among practitioners in disability services often treat ICT adoption as a monolithic concept, overlooking its multifaceted nature within the disability field. This study introduces a stepped, inclusive approach to capturing this complexity, elucidating disparities in the utilization of various ICT dimensions, the present vs. anticipated use, and variations among different clinical-demographic groups. MATERIALS AND METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Hong Kong, gathering valid data from 324 practitioners spanning diverse disciplines and disability services. RESULTS Data analysis produced a three-factor model categorizing ICT tools into (1) information and communication tools, (2) screening and monitoring tools, and (3) treatment and rehabilitation tools. The first category was identified as the predominant ICT utilized currently, with significant projected growth in the latter two categories' usage. Variances in current ICT adoption were influenced by practitioners' roles, clientele, positions, affiliating agencies, and educational attainments. CONCLUSIONS This research provides a deeper understanding of the key dimensions of ICT adoption within disability services. It underscores the importance of devising specific and customized strategies for the effective integration of ICTs, ensuring a more tailored approach to meeting the unique demands of the disability field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialiang Cui
- Department of Social Work, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Agner J, Bau KE, Bruland D. An Introduction to Health Literacy and Social Contexts with Recommendations for Health Professionals and Researchers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:240. [PMID: 38397728 PMCID: PMC10888032 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21020240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Rarely do individuals seek, obtain, and understand health information in a solitary void [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Joy Agner
- Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA;
| | - Katharine Elizabeth Bau
- Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA;
| | - Dirk Bruland
- Institute for Educational and Health-Care Research in the Health Sector, Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Interaktion 1, 33619 Bielefeld, Germany;
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Woods L, Janssen A, Robertson S, Morgan C, Butler-Henderson K, Burton-Jones A, Sullivan C. The typing is on the wall: Australia's healthcare future needs a digitally capable workforce. AUST HEALTH REV 2023; 47:553-558. [PMID: 37743100 DOI: 10.1071/ah23142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Digital health technologies are a proposed solution to improve healthcare delivery and reduce pressures on the healthcare system, but these technologies are new to much of the health workforce. This perspective paper highlights lessons learned from the global experience of rapid digital transformation of health workforces, including fostering a culture of learning, ensuring accreditation and recognition, and adopting a transdisciplinary approach. Evidence-based actions are proposed to address recommendations to (1) ensure foundational workforce digital health capability and (2) build specialist digital health career pathways. Australia must take a national approach and strategically leverage strong collaborations across sectors including healthcare, education and government to ensure a consistent, regulated and sustainable digital workforce capability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanna Woods
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Level 5, Health Sciences Building, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Campus, Herston, Qld 4006, Australia; and Queensland Digital Health Centre, The University of Queensland, Herston, Qld, Australia; and Digital Health Cooperative Research Centre, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Anna Janssen
- Research Implementation Science and eHealth Group, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Samantha Robertson
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Level 5, Health Sciences Building, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Campus, Herston, Qld 4006, Australia; and Queensland Digital Health Centre, The University of Queensland, Herston, Qld, Australia
| | - Clare Morgan
- Digital Health Cooperative Research Centre, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | | | - Clair Sullivan
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Level 5, Health Sciences Building, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Campus, Herston, Qld 4006, Australia; and Queensland Digital Health Centre, The University of Queensland, Herston, Qld, Australia; and Digital Metro North, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
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Moretti V, Brunelli L, Conte A, Valdi G, Guelfi MR, Masoni M, Anelli F, Arnoldo L. A Web Tool to Help Counter the Spread of Misinformation and Fake News: Pre-Post Study Among Medical Students to Increase Digital Health Literacy. JMIR MEDICAL EDUCATION 2023; 9:e38377. [PMID: 36996010 PMCID: PMC10131978 DOI: 10.2196/38377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic was accompanied by the spread of uncontrolled health information and fake news, which also quickly became an infodemic. Emergency communication is a challenge for public health institutions to engage the public during disease outbreaks. Health professionals need a high level of digital health literacy (DHL) to cope with difficulties; therefore, efforts should be made to address this issue starting from undergraduate medical students. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the DHL skills of Italian medical students and the effectiveness of an informatics course offered by the University of Florence (Italy). This course focuses on assessing the quality of medical information using the "dottoremaeveroche" (DMEVC) web resource offered by the Italian National Federation of Orders of Surgeons and Dentists, and on health information management. METHODS A pre-post study was conducted at the University of Florence between November and December 2020. First-year medical students participated in a web-based survey before and after attending the informatics course. The DHL level was self-assessed using the eHealth Literacy Scale for Italy (IT-eHEALS) tool and questions about the features and quality of the resources. All responses were rated on a 5-point Likert scale. Change in the perception of skills was assessed using the Wilcoxon test. RESULTS A total of 341 students participated in the survey at the beginning of the informatics course (women: n=211, 61.9%; mean age 19.8, SD 2.0) and 217 of them (64.2%) completed the survey at the end of the course. At the first assessment, the DHL level was moderate, with a mean total score of the IT-eHEALS of 2.9 (SD 0.9). Students felt confident about finding health-related information on the internet (mean score of 3.4, SD 1.1), whereas they doubted the usefulness of the information they received (mean score of 2.0, SD 1.0). All scores improved significantly in the second assessment. The overall mean score of the IT-eHEALS significantly increased (P<.001) to 4.2 (SD 0.6). The item with the highest score related to recognizing the quality of health information (mean score of 4.5, SD 0.7), whereas confidence in the practical application of the information received remained the lowest (mean of 3.7, SD 1.1) despite improvement. Almost all students (94.5%) valued the DMEVC as an educational tool. CONCLUSIONS The DMEVC tool was effective in improving medical students' DHL skills. Effective tools and resources such as the DMEVC website should be used in public health communication to facilitate access to validated evidence and understanding of health recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Moretti
- Dipartimento di Area Medica, Università degli Studi di Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Laura Brunelli
- Dipartimento di Area Medica, Università degli Studi di Udine, Udine, Italy
- Accreditamento, Qualità e Rischio Clinico, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, Udine, Italy
| | - Alessandro Conte
- Direzione Medica del Presidio Ospedaliero di San Daniele - Tolmezzo, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, San Daniele del Friuli, Italy
| | - Giulia Valdi
- Dipartimento di Area Medica, Università degli Studi di Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Maria Renza Guelfi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Clinica, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Firenze, Italy
| | - Marco Masoni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Clinica, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Firenze, Italy
| | - Filippo Anelli
- Federazione Nazionale degli Ordini dei Medici Chirurghi e Odontoiatri, Roma, Italy
| | - Luca Arnoldo
- Dipartimento di Area Medica, Università degli Studi di Udine, Udine, Italy
- Accreditamento, Qualità e Rischio Clinico, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, Udine, Italy
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Reid L, Button D, Brommeyer M. Challenging the Myth of the Digital Native: A Narrative Review. NURSING REPORTS 2023; 13:573-600. [PMID: 37092480 PMCID: PMC10123718 DOI: 10.3390/nursrep13020052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims: Nurses are increasingly engaging with digital technologies to enhance safe, evidence-based patient care. Digital literacy is now considered a foundational skill and an integral requirement for lifelong learning, and includes the ability to search efficiently, critique information and recognise the inherent risk of bias in information sources. However, at many universities, digital literacy is assumed. In part, this can be linked to the concept of the Digital Native, a term first coined in 2001 by the US author Marc Prensky to describe young people born after 1980 who have been surrounded by mobile phones, computers, and other digital devices their entire lives. The objective of this paper is to explore the concept of the Digital Native and how it influences undergraduate nursing education. Materials and Methods: A pragmatic approach was used for this narrative review, working forward from Prensky’s definition of the Digital Native and backward from contemporary sources of information extracted from published health, education and nursing literature. Results: The findings from this narrative review will inform further understanding of digital literacy beliefs and how these beliefs influence undergraduate nursing education. Recommendations for enhancing the digital literacy of undergraduate nursing students are also discussed. Conclusions: Digital literacy is an essential requirement for undergraduate nursing students and nurses and is linked with safe, evidence-based patient care. The myth of the Digital Native negates the reality that exposure to digital technologies does not equate digital literacy and has resulted in deficits in nursing education programs. Digital literacy skills should be a part of undergraduate nursing curricula, and National Nursing Digital Literacy competencies for entry into practice as a Registered Nurse should be developed and contextualised to individual jurisdictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Reid
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, Australia
- Flinders Digital Health Research Centre, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, Australia
| | - Didy Button
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, Australia
- Flinders Digital Health Research Centre, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, Australia
| | - Mark Brommeyer
- College of Business, Government and Law, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, Australia
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville 4811, Australia
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Factors associated with the perceptions of eHealth technology of Chinese nurses and nursing students. Nurse Educ Pract 2023; 69:103605. [PMID: 37028224 DOI: 10.1016/j.nepr.2023.103605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
AIM The current study sought to assess the perceptions of eHealth technology of nurses and nursing students in China and to examine the association between these perceptions and demographic factors. BACKGROUND Despite the increasing use of eHealth technologies in China and across the globe, the perceptions of practicing and student nurses remain minimally explored. Findings from such an inquiry can potentially inform actions and policies to improve the uptake of eHealth technologies among Chinese nurses. DESIGN This was a cross-sectional study with a real-time online survey. METHODS A convenience sample of 1338 nurses and nursing students from Mainland China participated in the study. Their perceptions of eHealth technology were collected using the Chinese version of the Perceptions of eHealth Technology Scale. The Kruskal-Wallis test and multiple linear regression analysis were used to examine the relationship between demographic variables (age group, gender, occupation, education level, position and clinical experience) and perceptions of eHealth technology. All study procedures adhered to the STROBE guidelines. RESULTS Most participants were aged between 20 and 29 (55.8%). Nearly half (42.5%) were frontline clinical nursing staff, some were nursing students (36.2%), academic nursing staff (12.3%) and clinical nursing management staff (9.0%). Regardless of the differences in their demographic characteristics, the participants had higher mean scores in "Perception of eHealth applications" and lower mean scores in "Knowledge of eHealth technology". Participants with doctoral degree had a higher mean total score and higher sub-scale scores in knowledge of eHealth technology, perception of the advantages of eHealth technology and perception of eHealth applications; and the lowest scores in perception of the disadvantages of eHealth technology and perception of eHealth applications. Occupation, position and clinical experience were found to be the demographic characteristics associated with eHealth perceptions, before adjusting for age and gender. Education level was associated with eHealth perceptions regardless of adjustment. CONCLUSION Overall, participants had higher scores on perceptions of eHealth applications but lower scores on knowledge of eHealth technology. Considering the association between education and all subscales and overall scores, it may be essential to implement continuing professional education for nurses to improve their knowledge of eHealth applications. Encouragement to use available eHealth digital technologies may also be helpful to improve perceptions of eHealth.
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Kaloyanova K, Leventi N, Kaloyanova E. Evaluating computing students' digital skills and health literacy: A case from Bulgaria. Front Public Health 2023; 10:1085842. [PMID: 36761337 PMCID: PMC9902705 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1085842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The main purpose of this article is to describe the importance and the challenges of digital health literacy as recognized during the COVID-19 pandemic. First, basic definitions of health literacy and digital health literacy are provided, followed by, and matched against digital competence frameworks, and health literacy skills content and scales. Based on that, a compatibility analysis is provided, against the expectations for satisfactory levels definition for the respective competences and skills. For the approbation of the approach, results received from the participation of computing students at the Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski in the COVID-19 Health Literacy Survey are used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalinka Kaloyanova
- Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics, Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski, Sofia, Bulgaria,*Correspondence: Kalinka Kaloyanova ✉
| | - Nikoleta Leventi
- Faculty of Public Health, Medical University—Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Elitsa Kaloyanova
- Department of Data Science and Content Creation, 365 Data Science OOD, Sofia, Bulgaria
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Campanozzi LL, Gibelli F, Bailo P, Nittari G, Sirignano A, Ricci G. The role of digital literacy in achieving health equity in the third millennium society: A literature review. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1109323. [PMID: 36891330 PMCID: PMC9986277 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1109323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Healthcare in the third millennium is largely delivered through systems involving the use of the technological devices and services, foremost among them telemedicine. For the adequate delivery of digital medicine services, however, it is necessary for users to be digitally literate, that is, able to consciously make use of technology. In order to understand how relevant digital literacy is in determining the effectiveness of e-Health services, we performed a traditional literature review on 3 major databases by combining the terms "Digital Literacy" and "Computer Literacy" with the terms "Telemedicine" and "Telehealth". Starting from an initial library of 1,077 papers, we selected 38 articles. At the outcome of the search, we found that digital literacy is a pivotal element in conditioning the effectiveness of telemedicine and digital medicine services in general, however, with some limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Filippo Gibelli
- Section of Legal Medicine, School of Law, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Paolo Bailo
- Section of Legal Medicine, School of Law, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Giulio Nittari
- Telemedicine and Telepharmacy Centre, School of Medicinal and Health Products Sciences, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Ascanio Sirignano
- Section of Legal Medicine, School of Law, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Giovanna Ricci
- Section of Legal Medicine, School of Law, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
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