From experts’ perspective, factors affecting the effectiveness of online educational programs in promoting the health literacy of MS patients: A grounded theory approach

IF 2.9 2区医学 Q2 PUBLIC, ENVIRONMENTAL & OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH

Patient Education and Counseling Pub Date : 2025-01-17 DOI:10.1016/j.pec.2025.108673

Seyed Kian Haji seyed javadi , Aisan Nouri

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Abstract

Background

Online educational programs have emerged as a promising tool for promoting health literacy (HL) among multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. However, identifying influencing factors is crucial for maximizing their effectiveness.

Aim

This study aimed to explain the factors affecting the effectiveness of online educational programs in promoting HL among MS patients in Iran.

Methods

A qualitative methodology based on Grounded Theory (GT) was employed and participants were recruited using snowball sampling. A total of 17 experts, including patient educators and HL experts, were interviewed until theoretical saturation was achieved. Participants were selected from patient rehabilitation centers in Tehran and members of the Iran MS Society.

Results

Analysis of the interview data revealed six contextual factors. These factors included socioeconomic status, healthcare infrastructure, technological accessibility and literacy, cultural and linguistic diversity, support networks and caregiver involvement, and health policy and regulatory environment.

Conclusions

Addressing socioeconomic disparities, improving technological access and literacy and fostering cultural sensitivity are essential steps to enhance the effectiveness and accessibility of these programs. Moreover, collaboration with caregivers and policymakers is crucial for creating an enabling environment that supports the successful integration of online health education initiatives into MS care.

Practice implications

Findings from this study can enhance the efficacy and productivity of online programs aimed at boosting HL among patients with specific conditions like MS

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来源期刊

Patient Education and Counseling 医学-公共卫生、环境卫生与职业卫生

CiteScore

5.60

自引率

11.40%

发文量

384

审稿时长

46 days

期刊介绍： Patient Education and Counseling is an interdisciplinary, international journal for patient education and health promotion researchers, managers and clinicians. The journal seeks to explore and elucidate the educational, counseling and communication models in health care. Its aim is to provide a forum for fundamental as well as applied research, and to promote the study of organizational issues involved with the delivery of patient education, counseling, health promotion services and training models in improving communication between providers and patients.