Mitigating Health Disparities: Bridging the Digital Divide in Modern Health Care.

Abstract

In the rapidly evolving landscape of US health care, technological advances promise significant improvements. The ongoing digital divide, however, is a critical factor affecting equitable access to health care. This perspective examines the multifaceted nature of the digital divide and its impact on health literacy, the use of electronic health tools, and disparities rooted in race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. The partnership between healthcare providers and health communication researchers, along with seamless data sharing, emerges as a crucial catalyst for elevating health literacy. To effectively address the digital divide, healthcare providers may find it beneficial to conduct assessments of the evolving health literacy and digital health landscape. An essential paradigm shift involves the customization of digital health solutions by medical providers, aligning them with the diverse needs and preferences of patients. This transformative approach necessitates a departure from static, one-way communication channels, emphasizing the dynamic adaptation of digital health interventions to enhance accessibility and relevance in patient care.