P088 Social Media Usage and Raising Public Health Literacy Awareness in West Kalimantan

Abstract

This paper aims to analyze the use of social media in raising health literacy awareness among the community in West Kalimantan. The study is motivated by low levels of health literacy stemming from limited knowledge which affect public health behaviors regarding infectious diseases, the use of healthcare facilities, and medical treatment. Health communication and media-based dissemination of health information to encourage healthy living are crucial. This study employs a case study approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews and an assessment of community conditions in Sambas Regency. The findings indicate that access to information regarding health issues, infectious diseases, healthcare facility utilization, and treatment options has historically been very limited. Social media serves as an alternative for meeting information needs and addressing immediate health concerns, though its use remains largely confined to personal and immediate family matters. A lack of awareness and motivation regarding the importance of health is attributed to several factors, including education levels, geographical constraints, and a scarcity of available health information.