eHealth Literacy

Health Literacy across multiple domains

What is "H" in the acronym H.E.A.R.T in eHealth literacy?

Health Literacy

Is the ability to understand medical information, diagnoses, prescriptions, and health recommendations.

Digital Literacy

It is the ability to navigate websites, mobile apps, and online platforms to access health information, including searching effectively, using health apps, and engaging with digital tools.

Information Literacy

It is the ability to determine if a source is reliable, current, and supported by scientific evidence, helping individuals avoid false or misleading health claims.

Media Literacy

It is the ability to critically interpret health-related content from news, social media, blogs, and advertisements, enabling individuals to spot bias, manipulation, and false advertising.

Evaluates online health information critically

What is "E" in the acronym H.E.A.R.T in eHealth literacy?

World Health Organization (WHO)

Department of Health (DOH)

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Reputable Hospitals and Universities

To identify reliable resources, look for information from reputable organizations such as:

Scientific evidence

Trust information based on research and expert opinions, not just personal stories.

Exaggerated Claims

Is a red flag of information when it contains phrases such as "miracle cure," "instant results," and "one-time solution".

No scientific evidence

Health claims without studies or professional endorsement

Unclear Authors

Websites or blogs without author credentials, contact details, or references

Active Engagement with Digital Health Tools

What is "A" in the acronym H.E.A.R.T in eHealth literacy?

Mobile Health Apps

Track fitness, diet, sleep, and medication schedules

Telemedicine

Consult doctors online, reducing the need for in-person visits

Health Monitoring Devices

Smartwatches, glucose monitors, and blood pressure trackers that provide real-time health data

Responsible use of digital health practices

What is "R" in the acronym H.E.A.R.T in eHealth literacy?

Use strong passwords

Create unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication.

Be cautious when sharing information

Avoid posting personal medical details publicly.

Check Privacy Policies

Read the terms and conditions before sharing data with apps or websites.

Trusted and Informed Health Decisions

What is "T" in the acronym H.E.A.R.T in eHealth literacy?

Consult Licensed Health Professionals

Rely on science-based, expert guidance.

Use evidence-based information

Ensure safer and more effective health outcomes.

Be skeptical of viral trends

Popular doesn't always mean safe or effective.

Secure your data and privacy

The "S" in the acronym S.M.A.R.T that is about:

•Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication.

•Only share information on trusted and official health platforms.

• Read the privacy policy of an app before entering your details.

Manage digital health tools

The "M" in the acronym S.M.A.R.T that is about:

• Choose trusted mHealth apps that health experts recommend.

• Navigate telemedicine platforms to book appointments, access prescriptions, and talk to licensed and accredited doctors.

• Fix common technical issues such as a poor internet connection during a video call with a doctor.

Assess the credibility of online health information

The "A" in the acronym S.M.A.R.T that is about:

• Check if the website is from a trusted medical organization such as WHO or DOH.

• Look for scientific evidence that supports the claims.

• Be cautious of overpromising statements, including "Cures all diseases instantly!"

Responsible communication with online doctors

The "R" in the acronym S.M.A.R.T that is about:

· Describe your symptoms clearly (e.g., "I have had a sharp pain in my stomach for two days.").

· Ask questions if you don't understand the diagnosis or treatment.

· Follow instructions and take the prescribed medicine(s) properly

Track and use your data health wisely

The "T" in the acronym S.M.A.R.T that is about:

• Use apps as a guide, but don't rely on them for medical diagnoses.

• Double-check readings with a health care professional.

• Be aware of how apps collect your data and adjust your privacy settings accordingly