Hispanic/Latino Americans Turn to Nontraditional Health Information Sources, More Than Any Other Racial Group [REPORT]

Findings from a new national survey of 2,530 Americans conducted by M Booth Health reveals the outsize impact that nontraditional sources of health information have on the decisions of the largest racial/ethnic minority group in the United States. The data, available in a new report – Chosen Circles: How Hispanic/Latino Americans Navigate Health Decision-Making – show how, in the face of systemic barriers and a shortage of culturally relevant health information, Hispanic/Latino Americans are taking control of their health care decisions.

Key findings from the July 2024 national survey:

– Beyond the health care professional

– Sixty-seven percent of Hispanic/Latino Americans seek health information outside of traditional channels like health care professionals, more than any other racial group.

Traditional health information is falling short

• Health information anxiety: More than one-third (37%) of Hispanic/Latino Americans report feeling stressed or anxious about accessing necessary health information, compared with 28% of the general U.S. population.
• Access barriers: Nearly half (47%) say they could not afford recommended health actions.
• Trust issues with health care providers: More than half (52%) of Hispanic/Latino Americans do not consider health care providers to be a primary source of health information, revealing a significant disconnect.
• Disregarding traditional health sources: More than one-third (35%) have ignored health information from traditional sources, citing a lack of relevance or cultural understanding.

The rise of ‘Chosen Circles’—personal networks of trust

In response to these challenges, Hispanic/Latino Americans are increasingly forming Chosen Circles—personal networks of trusted individuals and resources that are helping them make informed health care decisions. These networks are built on relationships and sources that offer cultural relevance, trust and accessibility.

Family and community impact: Nearly half (48%) of respondents turn to family members for health advice, and 36% rely on friends and neighbors as key sources of health information.
Influencers and digital trust: A growing number (26%) say they seek health information from online influencers they follow, underscoring the importance of digital platforms in closing the health information gap.
Therapists for emotional support: 23% of Hispanic/Latino Americans look to mental health professionals for support as they navigate their health care choices, demonstrating the essential role of emotional and mental health in decision-making.

“This research shows us that Hispanic/Latino Americans are not passively accepting the health disparities they face,” said Tayla Mahmud, EVP of Health Equity & Multicultural Strategy at M Booth Health. “They are taking control, forming Chosen Circles of trusted individuals and resources that help them navigate a system that often overlooks their needs. It’s time for health care organizations to listen and respond with actionable change.”

To download report, CLICK HERE.