Mobile Technology and Health Autonomy: A Mixed-Methods Study of Information-Seeking and Self-Care Practices in Rural Uganda

This study investigates the nexus between digital access and health autonomy in rural Uganda, addressing a critical gap in literature which often focuses on infrastructure provision without adequately exploring its translation into empowered self-care. While mobile technology is hailed for its potential to transform healthcare delivery in sub-Saharan Africa, evidence on how it shapes individual agency in resource-limited settings remains fragmented. This research specifically examines the influence of mobile phone ownership and internet connectivity on health information-seeking behaviours and subsequent self-care practices. A concurrent mixed-methods design was employed (2023–2024), integrating a cross-sectional household survey (n=412) with in-depth interviews (n=28) across two rural districts. Quantitative data, analysed via logistic regression, demonstrated that mobile phone ownership with internet access significantly increased the frequency of online health information-seeking (AOR=4.2, p<0.001). However, a pronounced digital divide persisted, with women and older adults exhibiting markedly lower access. Thematic analysis of qualitative data revealed that acquired information empowered individuals to manage chronic conditions, triage ailments, and critically appraise advice from formal health services, thereby fostering agency. Nevertheless, prevalent misinformation and limited digital literacy were identified as substantial barriers to effective utilisation. The study concludes that while mobile technology is a potent enabler of health autonomy, its benefits are inequitably distributed. These findings underscore the necessity for integrated public health strategies that couple infrastructure investment with community-based digital literacy programmes to promote equitable participation in digital health and strengthen health systems resilience.