Personal Health Information (PHI) Disclosure in the Use of Wearable Fitness Devices: Identifying the Determinants and the Moderating Role of a Pandemic

Wearable fitness devices (WFDs), a subset of wearable Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, are increasingly used for health monitoring and disease prevention. This study identifies factors influencing users’ willingness to disclose personal health information (PHI) in exchange for benefits offered by WFDs. Using an integrated theoretical framework that combines Health Belief Model (HBM) and Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), the research identifies how perceived benefits, perceived barriers, attitudes, and subjective norms shape PHI disclosure and WFD adoption. Findings reveal that users are more likely to disclose sensitive personal health information (PHI) when they perceive significant health benefits and minimal barriers to using WFDs. However, ongoing concerns about data privacy, security, and the ethical use of PHI continue to pose barriers to wider acceptance. By clarifying the psychological and behavioral drivers of PHI disclosure, the study offers insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and technology developers to promote responsible WFD adoption and enhance public health outcomes.