Abstract
Healthcare outreach via the Internet requires users to have a working understanding of computers, the Internet, and the media source used (such as a social network). However, little is known about computer, Internet, and social networking (CISN) use among U.S. military service members and veterans. The aim of this investigation was to explore CISN use among U.S. military active duty and veteran service members. Volunteers completed a CISN self-report survey (n=203). Chi-square tests and Pearson product-moment correlation coefficients revealed home computer use of 12 ± 14.1 hrs/wk and work computer use of 20.4 ± 18.4 hrs/wk. Self-reports revealed 85.2% operating at a self-reported intermediate, advanced, or expert computer skill level (n = 149), 91.2% with intermediate, advanced, or expert Internet proficiency, and 73.3% using social media. Older subjects 60+ used CISN less than those ≤ 59 (p<.05). While the majority of participants appeared to have sufficient internet skills to participate in Internet health care outreach programs, about 15% did not have such skills. This unskilled population may not benefit from internet outreach programs. Additional research will provide information on CISN use among military subpopulations and assist with designing an integration of in-person and Internet outreach programs to reach those in need.