Health educator discusses how to address misinformation

An American Hospital Association blog explores how health care providers and administrators can combat misinformation. Erin Fogarty, PhD, MPH, health education and marketing director, Livingston County Health Department in Pontiac, Ill., writes that by understanding the beliefs that drive patient behavior, health care providers and administrators can better design messaging that promotes positive health outcomes. To address vaccine hesitancy during the pandemic, her health department identified areas of concern for residents and developed messaging to address those concerns. They employed trusted community members, including local physicians and religious leaders, to disseminate accurate information about the vaccines. In addition, they urged people to discuss their vaccination experiences with family members and friends. Their combined efforts resulted in a more than 25% increase in the number of vaccinated residents. (AHA blog, 5/30/23)