title: Formative Evaluation to Assess Communication Technology Access and Health Communication Preferences of Alaska Native People.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Information technology can improve the quality, safety, and efficiency of healthcare delivery by improving provider and patient access to health information. We conducted a nonrandomized, cross-sectional, self-report survey to determine whether Alaska Native and American Indian (AN/AI) people have access to the health communication technologies available through a patient-centered medical home.
  
  
  METHODS
  In 2011, we administered a self-report survey in an urban, tribally owned and operated primary care center serving AN/AI adults. Patients in the center's waiting rooms completed the survey on paper; center staff completed it electronically.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Approximately 98% (n= 654) of respondents reported computer access, 97% (n= 650) email access, and 94% (n= 631) mobile phone use. Among mobile phone users, 60% had Internet access through their phones. Rates of computer access (p= .011) and email use (p= .005) were higher among women than men, but we found no significant gender difference in mobile phone access to the Internet or text messaging. Respondents in the oldest age category (65-80 years of age) were significantly less likely to anticipate using the Internet to schedule appointments, refill medications, or communicate with their health care providers (allp< .001).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Information on use of health communication technologies enables administrators to deploy these technologies more efficiently to address health concerns in AN/AI communities. Our results will drive future research on health communication for chronic disease screening and health management.
authors.forename: Renee F
authors.initials: RF
authors.lastname: Robinson
authors.forename: Denise A
authors.initials: DA
authors.lastname: Dillard
authors.forename: Vanessa Y
authors.initials: VY
authors.lastname: Hiratsuka
authors.forename: Julia J
authors.initials: JJ
authors.lastname: Smith
authors.forename: Steve
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Tierney
authors.forename: Jaedon P
authors.initials: JP
authors.lastname: Avey
authors.forename: Dedra S
authors.initials: DS
authors.lastname: Buchwald
keywords: Alaska; Healthcare communication; colorectal cancer; disease screening; technology access