Dr. Michael Stellefson
Professional Organizations
- Society for Public Health Education
- American Public Health Association
- Society for Health Communication
Research Interests
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a significant public health concern, especially in the Southeastern United States. My research tackles this challenge by focusing on the social determinants of health that disproportionately impact people with COPD and developing innovative health education strategies to improve their health outcomes.
One key area of my research explores the link between socioeconomic factors and electronic health (eHealth) literacy. I recently conducted a study examining the understandability and actionability of web-based educational resources for people with COPD. This research highlights the critical need for educational materials targeted at patients' varying literacy levels. This literacy-sensitive approach to health education ensures patients can grasp the information they need to self-manage their condition effectively.
Furthermore, I am dedicated to identifying and addressing socioeconomic disparities in COPD care. My research has uncovered concerning discrepancies in healthcare access, particularly among Black Alabamians with COPD who lack health insurance. These findings highlight the urgent need for culturally sensitive interventions and improved access to healthcare for high-risk populations. My research strives to create a more equitable healthcare landscape for people with COPD by addressing these disparities.
My research utilizes a multifaceted approach, employing systematic reviews, web-based surveys, multimedia content analyses, and qualitative interviews. This comprehensive approach allows me to achieve my three main research goals:
Beyond my own research pursuits, I am passionate about mentoring undergraduate and graduate students and fostering the next generation of researchers. Throughout my career, I have co-authored over 60 manuscripts and presented at 70 professional conferences with nearly 50 undergraduate and graduate students. I am committed to empowering my students with the necessary skills and knowledge to become successful researchers and future leaders in health education.
One key area of my research explores the link between socioeconomic factors and electronic health (eHealth) literacy. I recently conducted a study examining the understandability and actionability of web-based educational resources for people with COPD. This research highlights the critical need for educational materials targeted at patients' varying literacy levels. This literacy-sensitive approach to health education ensures patients can grasp the information they need to self-manage their condition effectively.
Furthermore, I am dedicated to identifying and addressing socioeconomic disparities in COPD care. My research has uncovered concerning discrepancies in healthcare access, particularly among Black Alabamians with COPD who lack health insurance. These findings highlight the urgent need for culturally sensitive interventions and improved access to healthcare for high-risk populations. My research strives to create a more equitable healthcare landscape for people with COPD by addressing these disparities.
My research utilizes a multifaceted approach, employing systematic reviews, web-based surveys, multimedia content analyses, and qualitative interviews. This comprehensive approach allows me to achieve my three main research goals:
- Analyze public health data to identify and target disadvantaged adults with low socioeconomic status who have been diagnosed with COPD.
- Evaluate web-based technologies designed to support self-management in people with COPD.
- Explore innovative methods to increase electronic health (eHealth) literacy within underserved populations with chronic diseases.
Beyond my own research pursuits, I am passionate about mentoring undergraduate and graduate students and fostering the next generation of researchers. Throughout my career, I have co-authored over 60 manuscripts and presented at 70 professional conferences with nearly 50 undergraduate and graduate students. I am committed to empowering my students with the necessary skills and knowledge to become successful researchers and future leaders in health education.
Courses Taught
- HHE 375 Health Behavior Theory
- HHE 446 Health Disparities
- HHE 496 Independent Study
- HHE 587 Health Disparities
- HHE 605 Advanced Theoretical and Scientific Basis of Health Education and Health Promotion
- HHE 699 Dissertation Research