Meta-analysis: eHealth literacy and attitudes towards internet/computer technology

Abstract

Objective: To explore the relationship between eHealth literacy and attitudes towards internet/computer (I/C) technology use in healthcare.

Methods: Analysis of data from 16 cross-sectional studies, involving literature search from databases like PubMed, EBSCO, JMIR, up to April 2023. Studies were selected based on a quantitative cross-sectional design, with no restrictions on participant characteristics.

Results: A significant positive correlation (0.36; 95% CI 0.37-0.38, p < 0.05) was found between eHealth literacy and positive attitudes towards I/C technology use. Age and regional differences, especially in participants over 50 and from Asian and Middle Eastern countries, were notable.

Conclusion: Lower eHealth literacy is associated with more negative attitudes towards I/C technology in healthcare. This trend is consistent across diverse demographics and regions.

Keywords: Computer Attitudes; Digital Literacy; EHL; EHealth Literacy; Healthcare; Internet Attitudes; Internet/Computer.