The use and readiness for eHealth and eWelfare among young adults.

Abstract

Objective: Purpose of this cross-sectional study was to investigate young adults' eHealth literacy levels, use, and readiness to use eHealth and eWelfare. Methods: An electronic survey based on Readiness and Enablement Index for Health Technology (READHY) was aimed at young adults in the geographical are of one wellbeing services county in Southern Finland. Data were analyzed using non-parametrical statistical methods. Results: Young adults (N = 110) actively used eHealth and eWelfare and assessed themselves as having good general digital skills. They were confident in their eHealth literacy and readiness for the use of eHealth and eWelfare. However, young adults not in education, employment, or training (NEETs, n = 21) were significantly less confident than non-NEETs (n = 89) in three of the five domains describing eHealth literacy, and readiness for the use of health technology. Conclusions: The differences between NEETs and non-NEETs indicate that further research on NEETs' and other subgroups' abilities to use eHealth and eWelfare is needed to ensure that these services can be fully utilized.