Correlations between Social Determinants of Health and Technology Access among Rural African American Alabamians

J Health Care Poor Underserved. 2023;34(1):21-34. doi: 10.1353/hpu.2023.0003.

Abstract

Certain populations have been excluded from the benefits of telehealth and the recent advances and widespread use of technology in health promotion due to limited technology access. Although research has identified these specific groups, none has explored these issues using the social determinants of health (SDH) framework. This exploratory study aimed 1) to investigate technology access and 2) to identify associated SDHs. A cross-sectional research design was implemented, and participants were recruited from rural Alabama (N=185). Binary logistic regressions were conducted. Only 60% of participants had technology access. People with food insecurity and health illiteracy were less likely to have internet and PC/tablet access. In addition, older age was associated with a lower likelihood of access to a smartphone. This study provided insights into SDH correlates of the digital divide, particularly among rural African Americans, and indicated that addressing affordability could be a partial solution.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Alabama
  • Black or African American*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Health Promotion
  • Humans
  • Rural Population*
  • Social Determinants of Health*