Smart Tech, Smarter Care through Digital Literacy
By Office of the President | Dec 3, 2024
Technology has reshaped every facet of healthcare, from patient interactions to managing
critical medical data. But as technology becomes more accessible, a pressing question
arises: Are we equipping future healthcare practitioners to use these tools effectively?
As part of National Distance Learning Week (November 4–8), SUNY Online hosted free university-wide webinars to spotlight emerging issues in digital education. Vikram Pagpatan, Ed.D., OTR/L, Associate Professor of Occupational Therapy and certified assisted technology professional, discussed the importance of digital literacy in the health sciences.
According to Dr. Pagpatan, the ongoing revolution in health science education goes beyond simply teaching technology. It requires transforming how educators prepare students to navigate and seize the opportunities of a digital age. Students must learn to apply technology thoughtfully, particularly in underserved communities where digital access and knowledge gaps profoundly affect patient outcomes.
Dr. Pagpatan suggests the tips below for mentoring the next generation of healthcare professionals, whether in medicine, nursing, or allied health fields:
Teach critical evaluation of digital information. Students must learn to evaluate online information critically, distinguishing reliable sources from misinformation to provide evidence-based care.
Embrace blended learning for practical training. The pandemic revealed the potential and limits of digital instruction, with blended learning models balancing online flexibility and essential in-person clinical training.
Prepare students for digital health tools. As smartphone apps and wearable devices become pervasive in wellness and home care, students must know how to guide patients to use digital tools effectively.
Address the digital divide. Healthcare providers must recognize patients’ varying familiarity with technology. Younger, tech-savvy individuals often navigate digital tools easily, while older or less experienced adults may struggle. Dr. Pagpatan stresses assessing digital literacy during evaluations to build rapport and create personalized care plans.
Model life-long learning. Educators must emphasize lifelong learning, as the pandemic’s rapid technological advancements highlight the need to stay current through mentorship, continuing education, and engagement in technology-focused communities.
By integrating these strategies, health science educators can empower students to harness technology to benefit their patients and communities. Dr. Pagpatan teaches that digital literacy is more than just a technical skill; it is a transformative tool for advancing equity and excellence in healthcare.