Leveraging digital media for effective healthcare information dissemination: A study of reach, accessibility, and impact

Abstract

Healthcare information dissemination via digital media is crucial for enhancing public health awareness and decision-making. This study  investigates the effectiveness, reach, and barriers of digital media in healthcare communication. Utilizing a sample of 186 respondents  from Delhi, India, the study employs chi-square tests to examine the relationships between digital media reach and healthcare  information accessibility, improvements in health knowledge and behavioural changes, and the perception of barriers and facilitators.  Results indicate significant relationships between the perception of digital media reach and information accessibility (χ² = 38.796, p =  0.001), health knowledge improvement and behavior change (χ² = 37.772, p = 0.002), and between perceived barriers and facilitators (χ² =  118.721, p < 0.001). These findings highlight the potential of digital media to enhance healthcare information dissemination and promote  positive health behaviour’s, while highlighting the need to address digital literacy and access disparities. Recommendations include enhancing user engagement through personalized content, improving digital literacy, ensuring robust quality control, and safeguarding  privacy and security. This study contributes valuable insights for healthcare practitioners, policymakers, and digital media professionals  aiming to optimize health communication strategies in the digital era.