Network social capital and health information acquisition

Objective: This study examines the associations of network social capital with obtaining health information from health care professionals, the media, and laypeople. We also investigate whether and how the relationship between social capital and health information acquisition differs by personal health literacy. We used a position generator to measure network social capital. Methods: We conducted a survey with a nationally representative sample (N = 626) in the United States in April 2014. Results: Network social capital was positively associated with obtaining health information from health professionals, the media, and laypeople. Also, the associations of social capital with health information acquisition from health professionals were enhanced among those with adequate personal health literacy. However, health literacy did not moderate the relationship between social capital and health information acquisition from the media and laypeople. Conclusion: Social capital may encourage individuals to utilize health information sources. Also, health literacy might reinforce the linkage between social capital and acquiring health information from health professionals. Practice implications: Social capital interventions may promote health information acquisition. Also, health professionals should communicate with patients in a patient-centered way so that low-literate individuals easily understand health information. Moreover, a universal precaution approach should be employed.