Patterns and Correlates of Internet Use, Cell Phone Use, and Attitudes Toward Patient Portals Among a Predominantly Mexican-American Clinic Population

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to describe access and health-related use of the Internet and cell phones, and attitudes toward patient portals among a predominantly Hispanic patient population residing along the U.S.-Mexico border. METHODS: A bilingual cross-sectional survey was conducted in two clinics to describe use and attitudes toward use of Web 2.0 technology for health-related activities. Univariate and multivariable analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with past Web 2.0 use and willingness to use these technologies in the future. RESULTS: Two hundred and one participants were recruited (response rate: 53.3%). Respondents had an average age of 61.5 years, were predominantly female (63.2%), Hispanic (71.6%), of low income (93.0% <$25,000), and low educational attainment (49.8% <high school). 44.8% reported Internet access and 39.3% reported Internet use. Barriers identified included access (80%) and not knowing how to use the Internet (76.5%). A majority (98.5%) reported having a cell phone available in their house and 76.5% had used a cell phone. 16.3% had heard of a patient portal; 94.5% agreed it was a good idea to review medical records, but only 49.2% thought it was a good idea to review medical records online. In multivariable analyses, younger age (p < 0.001) and higher health literacy were associated with willingness to use patient portals and younger age with text messaging. CONCLUSION: Significant barriers to use of Web 2.0 exist; incorporating Web 2.0 strategies into healthcare may still leave certain populations underserved.