Examining the Impact of E-Health Literacy on Indian Adults’ ‎Patient Satisfaction: An Investigation of Intervening ‎Communication Processes

Abstract

Among those with chronic health conditions, the effective use of digital health services may foster more productive physician-patient encounters. This study examined the contribution of e-health literacy to patient communication behaviors and patient satisfaction. A cross-sectional survey was administered to a sample of Indian adults with chronic health conditions. Hierarchical regression analyses indicated that e-health literacy directly predicted increased communication self-efficacy, patient empowerment, and reduced communication apprehension. Subsequent indirect effects tests showed that through these motivating factors, e-health literacy indirectly predicted increased patient communication and patient satisfaction. Overall, the findings indicate that the benefits of e-health literacy extend beyond digital information seeking more favorable medical consultations. Overall, enhancing chronically-ill patients’ digital health skills can lead to more productive medical consultations and better long-term health maintenance.

Keywords

• e-health literacy
• chronic illness
• patient communication
• patient satisfaction
• patient empowerment