Technology approaches to digital health literacy

Abstract

Digital health literacy is an extension of health literacy and uses the same operational definition, but in the context of technology. Technology solutions have the potential to both promote health literacy or be a barrier. To be effective, health technology solutions should go beyond building literacy and numeracy skills to functional and critical skills, such as navigating the healthcare system, communication with healthcare providers, and shared decision making. New and emerging technologies are highlighted: AI/machine learning, voice first, remote patient monitoring, wearables, and apps and web sites. Health technology represents enormous promise in the building of digital health literacy skills and improved health outcomes in patients with cardiovascular and other chronic conditions. This is a promise, however, that is yet to be fulfilled. TOPICS: Hypertension, Rehabilitation, Metabolic Syndrome, Health Policy, Risk Factor.

Keywords: Digital; Health literacy; Remote patient monitoring; Technology.