Variations in digital health literacy for pediatric caregivers of hospitalized children: implications for digital health equity

Abstract Objectives We sought to assess whether race, ethnicity, and preferred language were associated with digital health literacy in pediatric caregivers. Materials and Methods We used linear regression to measure associations between 3 eHealth Literacy Questionnaire (eHLQ) domains (score range: 1-4) and demographic characteristics. Results Non-Latinx White respondents (n = 230) had highest adjusted mean eHLQ scores: 3.44 (95% confidence interval: 3.36-3.52) in “Ability to engage,” 3.39 (3.31 to 3.47) in “Feel safe and in control,” and 3.34 (3.25 to 3.41) in “Motivated.” By contrast, Spanish-preferring Latinx respondents (n = 246) had lower adjusted mean scores across all 3 eHLQ domains: 2.97 (P < .0001), 3.21 (P = .004), and 3.19 (P = .033), respectively. Discussion Our study contributes insights in variations across ethnoracial and language preference groups by different eHLQ domains, with implications for addressing digital health inequities. Conclusion Digital health literacy was lower in Spanish-preferring Latinx pediatric caregivers compared to non-Latinx White caregivers across 3 eHLQ domains. It was lower than English-preferring Latinx caregivers in “Ability.”