Digital health access, engagement and trust: a survey of Pacific navigators in the DIGIFALE mobile health literacy programme

Introduction The DIGIFALE programme aims to strengthen mobile health literacy among Pacific communities in Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ) who continue to experience inequities in both healthcare access and digital inclusion. Aim The aim of this study was to explore access to digital health technology, digital health engagement, and trust in health information sources among Pacific navigators in the DIGIFALE programme. Methods An online survey was distributed via email to former DIGIFALE navigators across NZ. The survey collected information on participant characteristics, mobile phone access, connectivity, digital skills, health care, and digital health use in the previous six months and trust in digital health information sources. Data were analysed descriptively. Results Thirty navigators completed the survey. Almost all had a mobile phone and rated their mobile skills as excellent or good. Internet and email use were high, and respondents commonly used online health information, patient portals, and digital communication with healthcare providers. Despite high digital confidence, some navigators reported no phone credit, no mobile data, or difficulty charging their phone. Discussion Pacific navigators in the DIGIFALE programme were confident and engaged users of digital health tools and continued to provide informal support within families, churches, and communities after programme completion. Navigators also reported greater trust in online peer support health forums and GPs than other sources of digital health information.