Affiliation:
1. Department of Health Informatics, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
2. Department of Health Promotion, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
3. Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
Abstract
Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on healthcare delivery worldwide. Digital tools emerged as a preferred solution for maintaining healthcare services during this crisis. This study aimed to assess the magnitude of digital health literacy among healthcare professionals in Ethiopia in 2020–2023. Methods A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Articles published from 2020 to 2023 were reviewed using various electronic databases such as Medline, PubMed, and Cochrane Library, CINAHL, HINARI, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and Global Health. Meta-analysis was performed using STATA 17, and publication bias and heterogeneity were assessed. Results Six studies involving a total of 2739 participants were included in the analysis. The pooled level of high digital health literacy among health professionals in Ethiopia during the pandemic was found to be 56.0% (95% CI: 55, 58). Several factors were identified as significant contributors to high digital health literacy, including internet use (AOR = 2.72, 95% CI: 1.86, 3.98), perceived ease of use (AOR = 2.79, 95% CI: 1.83, 4.25), favorable attitude (AOR = 2.49, 95% CI: 1.61, 3.85), perceived usefulness (AOR = 2.29, 95% CI: 1.65, 3.18), information-communication-technology training (AOR = 6.09, 95% CI: 1.83, 24.27), and educational level (AOR = 3.60, 95% CI: 2.96, 4.37). Conclusion and recommendation The study findings revealed a moderate level of high digital health literacy among Ethiopian health professionals. Factors such as internet use, favorable attitude, and information-communication-technology training were associated with high-level digital health literacy. To enhance digital health literacy, it is crucial to provide timely training and improve internet access for healthcare professionals. Additionally, promoting the perception of digital tools as useful and supporting evidence-based decision-making can further improve digital health literacy. Comprehensive information-communication-technology training programs should be implemented to equip healthcare professionals with necessary skills to effectively combat outbreaks like the COVID-19 pandemic.