Utilization of usual source of care and health literacy among older adults with hypertension: a retrospective study

Abstract

Background and Objectives Usual source of care (USC) is a key aspect of primary care that can significantly enhance health literacy by facilitating regular health education, consistent communication with health professionals, and access to health resources. This study aims to investigate the relationship between the utilization of USC and health literacy among older adults with hypertension.

Research Design and Methods This study is a cross-sectional analysis utilizing data from the Korean Health Panel from 2020 to 2021, based on Andersen’s Behavioral Model of Health Services Use. The study included 1,986 older adults with hypertension (n = 821 men and 1,165 women). We employed multinomial logistic regression analysis to assess the association between USC utilization and health literacy, as well as the association between different types of USC health care settings and health literacy. Additionally, logistic regression was used to investigate the association between USC utilization and each domain of health literacy.

Results Among older adults with hypertension, those who do not utilize USC are significantly more likely to have inadequate health literacy compared to those who do (odds ratio [OR] = 2.58, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.81, 3.68). This association remains consistent across all five items within the disease prevention domain. Additionally, among older adults with hypertension who utilize USC, those who visit physicians’ offices are more likely to have sufficient health literacy (OR = 1.42, 95% CI = 1.01, 1.99).

Discussion and Implications This study demonstrates a positive association between the utilization of a USC and health literacy among older adults with hypertension, highlighting the former’s potential as an effective tool for managing hypertension. Furthermore, it suggests that future interventions should adopt tailored strategies suited to various health care settings to optimize health literacy and effectively support hypertension management.