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Health Education at Your Fingertips, Exploring the Potential of Video in Modern Society

Monday, 13 January 2025 View: 52

Author: Dewi Hendrayanti, dr
Graduate Student in Management,

Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Hayam Wuruk Perbanas

SURABAYA, Darahjuang.online – In today’s digital era, access to health information has undergone significant transformation. With just a touch of a finger, individuals can access a variety of health information sources through smartphones and other digital devices. According to a report by We Are Social and Hootsuite (2021), 4.2 billion people worldwide use social media, and more than 3.9 billion people are internet users.

This highlights the vast audience that can be reached through digital platforms. Video, as one of the most engaging content formats, has emerged as an effective medium for delivering health information.

Videos possess unique advantages compared to other content forms, such as text or static images. Research indicates that humans process visual information faster than textual information. A study conducted by 3M Corporation and Zabisco (2013) revealed that 90% of the information processed by the brain is visual, and humans can process images up to 60,000 times faster than text. Thus, the use of videos in health education not only enhances understanding but also helps retain the audience's attention.

A concrete example of video use in health education is found in public health campaigns. For instance, the CDC's (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) campaign "The Truth About Vaping" in the United States used videos to convey the dangers of vaping to teenagers. These videos reached over 1 million viewers in a short period, demonstrating the effectiveness of this medium in communicating vital health messages (CDC, 2020).

Additionally, platforms like YouTube and TikTok have become popular sources of health information among younger generations. According to Pew Research Center (2021), about 81% of teenagers use YouTube as an information source, and 69% report using TikTok. Video content on these platforms is often more engaging and easier to understand, increasing awareness and knowledge of complex health issues.

Positive Impacts of Using Videos in Health Education
Using videos as a health education tool has significantly positive impacts on improving public understanding and awareness of health issues. One of the primary impacts is their ability to simplify complex information. Health issues can often be highly technical and challenging for the general public to grasp. Videos can present this information in a more digestible format, utilizing graphics, animations, and clear narratives.

A study by Health Affairs (2019) found that using videos in health education programs improved participants' understanding of medical procedures by up to 60%. Participants who watched educational videos before undergoing medical procedures reported a higher level of comprehension compared to those who only received information through pamphlets or verbal discussions.

Videos also enhance audience engagement. According to a report by Wyzowl (2021), 84% of people said they were influenced to purchase a product after watching a video. In the health context, this means videos can not only enhance understanding but also encourage positive behavior changes. For example, videos educating the public about the importance of vaccination can motivate more people to get vaccinated, thereby reducing disease spread.

Challenges in Using Videos for Health Education
Despite the many benefits of videos in health education, several challenges persist. A primary concern is the credibility of information. In the digital age, many videos circulating online lack clear sources or accurate information. Research by McGill University (2020) found that about 50% of health-related videos on YouTube lacked strong scientific backing.

Another challenge is the digital divide. While smartphone and internet usage is on the rise, not everyone has equal access. According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU, 2021), approximately 3.7 billion people worldwide still lack internet access. This means a portion of the population cannot benefit from the potential of videos as an educational tool.

Moreover, video production and distribution require skills and resources. Poor-quality videos can undermine the credibility of the intended message. Ensuring high production standards and accurate content is essential for effective communication.

Strategies for Optimizing Video Use in Health Education
To overcome these challenges, several strategies can be implemented:

Ensuring Credibility: Involve health experts in the video production process to guarantee accuracy and reliability of information.
Improving Accessibility: Provide subtitles, translations, and content tailored to individuals with disabilities to reach a broader audience.
Choosing the Right Platforms: Tailor video distribution to platforms like YouTube and TikTok, which cater to specific audience demographics.
Monitoring and Evaluating Impact: Utilize analytics tools to assess viewership, engagement, and audience feedback to refine future strategies.

The Future of Video in Health Education
The future of videos in health education is promising with advancements in technology. Emerging innovations such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) offer immersive and interactive experiences, enhancing understanding of medical procedures or health conditions. Artificial intelligence (AI) also enables personalized health education through videos tailored to individual needs. AI can analyze user data and recommend relevant video content based on their interests and health history, significantly improving audience engagement.

Collaborations among health service providers, governments, and social media platforms can create a more integrated ecosystem for distributing health education videos. Research and innovation will remain vital to maximizing the potential of video as a tool for enhancing public health awareness and behavior.

Source: https://darahjuang.online/edukasi-kesehatan-di-ujung-jari-menggali-potensi-video-dalam-masyarakat-modern/
Published Date: January 8, 2025