The use of information and digital health technologies in medication literacy

Abstract

Digital health technologies have the potential to empower patients to take greater control of their health and to improve their medication use and health outcomes. These technologies enhance opportunities for better communication between the public and healthcare professionals. This chapter would explore the increasing utilization of digital health technologies in medication literacy and public health and would review a wide range of technologies currently used by patients and healthcare professionals, including electronic health records, telehealth pharmacy practice, mHealth applications, wearable devices, educational videos, translation tools, and gamification strategies. Current advancements in digital health technologies which may potentially transform medication management and patient education include the application of artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and augmented reality technologies. However, digital health technologies are associated with some limitations, including, but not limited to, privacy and data security concerns, prohibitive costs and affordability, and limited levels of digital literacy to use digital health tools.