Page 42 - Health Literacy, eHealth, and Communication: Putting the Consumer First: Workshop Summary

Health Literacy, eHealth, and Communication: Putting the Consumer First: Workshop Summary

oveRvieW oF iSSUeS

Norman responded that the eHealth system is dependent upon indi-
viduals with some type of literacy. The system must be structured in such
a way that it meets the needs of those using it, that is, it must be user
friendly for those with low health literacy or cultural needs. It cannot just
repackage the same old information in a digital format. The design of the
system must consider who is using it, how those using the system inter-
act with technology, what their needs are generally (such as literacy and
cultural needs), as well as what their needs are at a given time.
Rodgers said that one of the tools that will be important in the future
is an iPod or iPod-like device that enables the user to download informa-
tion. With such a tool individuals will not have to use a computer. Rather,
they will need to understand how to record and then play back infor-
mation. While such a mechanism is less interactive, it will still provide
important health information to users.
One participant said that the focus in developing eHealth systems
should not be just on the package of technological or system tools. Rather,
it will be critical to recognize the importance of the skills that individu-
als bring to the table and to understand what it is one is asking people
to do.
With the market driving development, competition is the name of
the game: How can one do this a little cheaper, a little better? Medicaid
in Arizona is doing it one way—and it seems to be a good way. Other
health care organizations are developing different approaches. People
using eHealth systems are confronted with 25 different ways of doing
one thing. How can they possibly navigate through these options? What
is needed is a system that people can navigate, one in which a set of skills
can be taught and used throughout health care. While cost may be the
driver, the real bottom-line quest is, Do these systems actually improve
the health of the population?

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