Communication for Coproduction: Increasing Information Credibility to Fight the Coronavirus

Abstract

Governments and citizens need to work together to fight and win the war against the coronavirus and coproduce better health outcomes. However, information asymmetries exist between the two parties and influence coproduction adversely. Effective communication by satisfying different types of citizens’ information needs can reduce the degree of information asymmetry and improve coproduction. When citizens distrust governments, governments can use credible information intermediaries, such as experts and volunteers, to increase information credibility. Increasing information credibility could further reduce information asymmetry, increase public trust, and motivate citizens to comply with health policies and coproduce better health outcomes.