Digital Health Communication and Patient Engagement
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54536/ajmhc.v1i2.7190Keywords:
Australia, Digital Health Communication, Digital Platforms, Patient EngagementAbstract
This study examined digital health communication and patient engagement among patients in selected healthcare institutions in Melbourne, Australia. It aimed to determine the level of patient exposure to digital health platforms, assess engagement with digital health information, evaluate the relationship between exposure and engagement, and explore patients’ perceptions of the credibility and usefulness of digital health communication. A descriptive-correlational research design was employed, involving 200 adult patients selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured, validated, and pilot-tested questionnaire, and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation. Findings revealed that patients reported high exposure to digital health platforms, particularly telehealth services and online health information, and moderate-to-high engagement, with reading content the most frequent activity. A significant positive relationship (r = 0.74, p < 0.001) was observed between exposure and engagement, indicating that greater interaction with digital platforms promotes active participation. Patients generally perceived digital health information as credible and useful, though trust in platforms was slightly lower. These findings suggest that while digital health communication is widely accessed and valued, additional strategies are needed to enhance engagement, trust, and application of information. The study provides actionable recommendations for healthcare providers, institutions, and policymakers to optimize the use of digital health tools and strengthen patient-centered care.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Lauretta Ayayi Fubara (Author)
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