Why Health Literacy and Digital Literacy Are the Future of Member Engagement - The Shift Toward Self-Empowerment

Why Health Literacy and Digital Literacy Are the Future of Member Engagement - The Shift Toward Self-Empowerment
GetSetUp Blue Logo
Bg Square Inside Shape Decoration White 08 - Accountant X Webflow Template

In today's rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, health literacy and digital literacy have emerged as pivotal components in enhancing member engagement. As healthcare systems increasingly integrate digital tools and platforms, the ability of individuals to effectively navigate and utilize these resources directly impacts their health outcomes and overall satisfaction.​

The Shift Toward Self-Empowerment

The healthcare industry is witnessing a significant shift toward self-empowerment, driven by the proliferation of telehealth services, digital benefits, and online self-service tools. These advancements offer patients unprecedented access to information and services, enabling them to take a more active role in managing their health. However, this shift also presents challenges, particularly for older adults who may struggle with adopting new technologies.​

Challenges Older Adults Face in Navigating Digital Health Tools

Older adults often encounter several obstacles when engaging with digital health tools:​

  • Lack of Digital Skills: Many seniors may not have had prior exposure to digital technologies, making it difficult to adapt to new platforms.​
  • Cognitive and Physical Limitations: Age-related cognitive decline or physical impairments can hinder the ability to use digital devices effectively.​
  • Privacy and Security Concerns: Apprehensions about data privacy and security can deter older adults from utilizing digital health services.​

These challenges can lead to decreased engagement with healthcare services, potentially resulting in poorer health outcomes.​

The Cost of Poor Digital Literacy

Inadequate digital literacy among older adults can have several adverse effects:​

  • Missed Appointments: Difficulty in using online scheduling systems can lead to missed medical appointments, delaying necessary care.​
  • Improper Medication Management: Challenges in accessing digital prescription services or health information can result in medication errors.​
  • Inefficient Healthcare Utilization: Inability to navigate telehealth platforms may lead to unnecessary emergency room visits or hospitalizations.​

Addressing these issues is crucial for improving healthcare efficiency and patient well-being.​

GetSetUp's Hybrid Approach to Empowering MCO Members

To bridge the gap in digital literacy among older adults, GetSetUp has developed a hybrid approach that combines interactive peer learning with AI-driven support:​

  • Interactive Peer Learning: Offering interactive sessions led by peers, GetSetUp creates a comfortable learning environment where older adults can acquire digital skills at their own pace.​
  • AI-Driven Support: With AI enhancements tailored for vocabulary, empathy, and real-life use cases, GetSetUp provides personalized assistance, making digital tools more accessible and user-friendly.​

This innovative approach empowers members of Managed Care Organizations to confidently engage with digital health resources, enhancing their health literacy and overall engagement.​

As healthcare continues to evolve, prioritizing health literacy and digital literacy is essential for effective member engagement. By addressing the unique challenges faced by older adults and implementing supportive educational wellness platforms like GetSetUp, healthcare providers can foster a more inclusive and efficient system that promotes self-empowerment and improved health outcomes.

Bring GetSetUp to your organization

We partner with Medicare Advantage plans, dual eligible plans,  healthcare providers, Departments of Health & Human Services, Government aging services and more.