Digital health literacy as a predictor of awareness, engagement and use of a national web-based personal health record: Population-based survey study (16 September 2022)

Summary

Web-based personal health records (PHRs) have the potential to improve the quality, accuracy and timeliness of health care. However, the international uptake of web-based PHRs has been slow. Populations experiencing disadvantages are less likely to use web-based PHRs, potentially widening health inequities within and among countries.

This study in the Journal of Medical Internet Research aimed to identify the predictors of awareness, engagement and use of the Australian national web-based PHR, My Health Record (MyHR). The study found a strong and consistent association between digital health literacy and the use of a web-based PHR. The authors suggest that improving digital technology and skill experiences may improve digital health literacy and willingness to engage in web-based PHR. They also suggest that uptake could be improved through more responsive digital services, strengthened healthcare and better social support.