Associations of Digital HEalth literacy with health-seeking behaviouR and Expectations among Swiss Digital NAtives: the ADHERE-DNA pilot study
Dario Kohlbrenner (Department of Pulmonology, University of Zurich, University Hospital Zurich,Careum Center for Health Literacy, Careum Foundation), Oliver Senn (Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, University Hospital Zurich), Anna-Sophia Beese (Careum Center for Health Literacy, Careum Foundation), Saskia Maria De Gani (Careum Center for Health Literacy, Careum Foundation, Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, University Hospital Zurich)
The amount of people seeking medical care has constantly increased in the last decade, including among younger adults. Fewer and fewer individuals in this age group report having not visited a medical doctor in the previous year, raising concerns. While media outlets speculate about causes, increased mental health issues and social media consumption are frequently discussed, there is limited rigorous data on the health-seeking behaviour of young Swiss adults.
The currently 15–34-year-olds represent the first generation of Swiss “Digital Natives” who rely heavily on online sources for health information. As a result, they are exposed to large volumes of health content of varying quality. The ability to navigate, evaluate, and use this information is referred to as digital health literacy (dHL). Their distinct patterns of information consumption, along with the growing use of health-tracking devices (e.g., wearables), may influence how they interpret health data, seek care, and interact with healthcare providers. Thus, insights into dHL levels of Swiss Digital Natives are needed.
This pilot study will explore the (i) dHL of Digital Natives (i.e., 15 – 34-year-olds) in Switzerland, (ii) their health-seeking behaviour, and their (iii) expectations towards consultations with healthcare providers.
The study uses a mixed-methods, cross-sectional design. Quantitative data will be collected through online surveys, while qualitative insights will be gathered via semi-structured interviews. The target sample includes 300 complete surveys from individuals aged 15–34 in German-speaking Switzerland, recruited through advertisements on social media platforms. A subset of participants will later be selected for interviews to ensure diversity in gender, age, and dHL levels.
The survey consists of three parts: socio-demographic information; health-seeking behaviour and expectations toward healthcare consultations; and dHL, measured using the Digital Health Literacy Instrument (DHLI), along with questions on digital media use. The survey takes 10–15 minutes to complete. Interviews will be conducted online.
Data analysis will include descriptive statistics and regression models assessing associations between dHL, health behaviour, and expectations, while controlling for potential effect modifiers. The project is a collaboration between the University of Zurich, University Hospital Zurich, and the Careum Foundation.
The study is expected to provide initial insights into how dHL shapes healthcare use among Digital Natives. Qualitative findings will deepen understanding of perceptions and behaviours, supporting the design of a future representative study. The results may also inform early interventions strengthening dHL.