e-Health Rural Consumers´ Characteristics and Challenges

Healthy People 2010 challenges individuals, communities, and professionals to take specific steps to ensure that good health, as well as long life, are enjoyed by all. Past research reports rural residents are less likely to receive preventive screening services, exercise regularly, wear safety belts, and maintain healthy lifestyle behaviors. Timely access to emergency services and the availability of specialty care are other issues for this population group. On the other hand, many rural residents are especially interested in e-Health services because it provides another means to receive healthcare in a timely manner, reduces the amount of time driving to and from appointments, provides quick access to medical experts, and offers a reference point to determine the seriousness of a medical condition. Therefore, this research focuses on a better understanding of the characteristics of rural e-Health consumers and the barriers preventing e-Health services from reaching their potential in rural communities.