Document Type : Original Article

Authors

• Christopher McKinley ¹
• Yam Limbu ¹
• P. Ganesan ²

¹ Montclair State University, USA

² Vellore Institute of Technology, India

Abstract

Among those with chronic health conditions, the effective use of digital health services may foster more productive physician-patient encounters. This study examined the contribution of e-health literacy to patient communication behaviors and patient satisfaction. A cross-sectional survey was administered to a sample of Indian adults with chronic health conditions. Hierarchical regression analyses indicated that e-health literacy directly predicted increased communication self-efficacy, patient empowerment, and reduced communication apprehension. Subsequent indirect effects tests showed that through these motivating factors, e-health literacy indirectly predicted increased patient communication and patient satisfaction. Overall, the findings indicate that the benefits of e-health literacy extend beyond digital information seeking more favorable medical consultations. Overall, enhancing chronically-ill patients’ digital health skills can lead to more productive medical consultations and better long-term health maintenance. 

Keywords

• E-health literacy
• Chronic illness
• Patient communication
• Patient satisfaction
• Patient empowerment