Health Information Literacy: The Case of Depok Residents

Abstract

This paper is the result of a study on health information literacy of Depok residents. This study is based on a phenomenon experienced by the Indonesian people, where many diseases occur and continue every year, such as avian influenza and dengue hemorrhagic fever. Awareness of health issues and the way to access information are important in an individual’s health information literacy. This research identifies the health information literacy of Depok residents in the following areas: their perception on health, their ways of searching for information, and the obstacles they face to get information. This research uses quantitative method and collects data through a survey. The data are analysed using interpretative method, based on cultural perspective. The result shows that health information literacy of Depok residents is basically categorized as “competent”. They have the knowledge however they do not always practise the knowledge. They do not pay too much attention on health information. To be healthy, they believe that they can rely on good feeling, happiness, and the religious ritual, such as praying and fasting. Their health problems are supported by indigenous knowledge that is inherited from their forefathers. They believe in traditional medicine and other spiritual healing. Besides that, medical care is not the first priority due to their lack of awareness on health issues, lack of health information and poverty.