Taking Health Information Behaviour into Account in the design of e-health services

Authors

• Isto Huvila Information Studies, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland and Department of ALM, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
• Stefan Ek Åbo Akademi University Library, Turku, Finland
• Heidi Enwald Information Studies, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland and Information and Communication Studies, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
• Kristina Eriksson-Backa Information Studies, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
• Noora Hirvonen Information Studies, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland and Information and Communication Studies, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
• Helena Känsäkoski Information Studies, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland and Information and Communication Studies, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland

Keywords:

information seeking behavior, health literacy, consumer health information, telemedicine, technology

Abstract

The aim of this article is to bring forward the benefits of a better integration of a comprehensive understanding of individuals’ information behaviour in the design and development of e-health services. This study is a descriptive review based on a non-exhaustive selection of literature that describes the state-of-the-art, problems and opportunities identified in e-health, health information behaviour and health information literacy research. By focusing on how to tailor the information provided and the technological devices to fit the information behaviour, the approach has also potential to uncover new insights into how to adequately implement and integrate ICTs into everyday life practices of other hard-to-reach groups in society. We presuppose that it will be possible to give practical recommendations based on a combined understanding of individual differences in health information behaviour and users’ expectations and experiences, acquired through empirical studies focusing on older adults. Moreover, the usefulness of health information literacy as an indicator of the patterns and competences related to health information behaviour is highlighted.