eHealth literacy, internet and eHealth service usage: a survey among a German municipality

Abstract

Aim: The aim of our study was to investigate health literacy and digital skills, as well as the Internet usage of a representative small town in the federal state of Thuringia in Germany. Subject and methods: We asked the citizens to fill out a standardized questionnaire concerning digital health literacy. Results: We received 488 questionnaires, and 76.4% of the population are willing to use digital media for health purposes in the future. There was no significant association between age and eHealth related services. Several factors showed an association between low education levels and understanding digital health information, as well as finding digital health information trustworthy. Almost everyone with a higher educational qualification generally understands Internet content on health topics quite well. Conclusion: In order for the population as well as the health system to benefit from the digital transformation, the focus should be on equipping citizens with sufficient digital skills.