Patterns and Correlates of Internet Use, Cell Phone Use, and Attitudes Toward Patient Portals Among a Predominantly Mexican-American Clinic Population.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to describe access and health-related use of the Internet and cell phones, and attitudes toward patient portals among a predominantly Hispanic patient population residing along the U.S.-Mexico border.

Methods: A bilingual cross-sectional survey was conducted in two clinics to describe use and attitudes toward use of Web 2.0 technology for health-related activities. Univariate and multivariable analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with past Web 2.0 use and willingness to use these technologies in the future.

Results: Two hundred and one participants were recruited (response rate: 53.3%). Respondents had an average age of 61.5 years, were predominantly female (63.2%), Hispanic (71.6%), of low income (93.0% <$25,000), and low educational attainment (49.8% 
Conclusion: Significant barriers to use of Web 2.0 exist; incorporating Web 2.0 strategies into healthcare may still leave certain populations underserved.