Web-Based Health Information Technology: Access Among Latinos Varies by Subgroup Affiliation (Preprint)

Abstract

Background: There are significant health technology gaps between Latinos and NH Whites, and between first and second generation Latinos. The purpose of this study is to examine disparities in online health information seeking behavior (HISB) and health information technology (HIT) use among Latinos, taking into account nativity and sub-ethnic affiliation. Methods:We analyzed US-born, non-Hispanic (NH) Whites and Latinos adults (N=49,259) in the 2015-16 National Health Interview Survey using a binary logistic regression controlling for individual difference level variables. Outcomes were Internet use, HISB (online health information-seeking and using a chat group for health information), and HIT (using a computer to schedule an appointment, filling a prescription, communicating with a provider). Results Conclusions:We found Latino subgroups do not use health information channels equally, and attempts to target Latinos should take ethnicity and nativity into account.