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, particularly in the Southeastern United States. My research aims to address this challenge by focusing on the social determinants of health that disproportionately impact individuals with COPD and by 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 literacy-sensitive educational materials tailored to the diverse needs of patients, ensuring they can effectively self-manage their condition. A comprehensive health literacy demands assessment of an online inhaler education video series revealed that while most inhaler-use videos were well-structured and actionable, their overall clarity was lacking. These findings underscore the importance of developing patient education resources that align with health literacy principles to improve understanding and proper inhaler and nebulizer use.
In addition, I am dedicated to identifying and addressing socioeconomic disparities in COPD care. My recent studies have uncovered significant health disparities among medically underserved adults with COPD. In one secondary analysis of 2019 BRFSS data, we found that less than half of adults with subjective cognitive decline (SCD) discussed their cognitive symptoms with healthcare professionals. Notably, males and binge drinkers were less likely to communicate these symptoms, while unemployed and retired individuals were more likely to engage in discussions. This research highlights critical gaps in patient-provider communication regarding cognitive symptoms and emphasizes the importance of tailored interventions for at-risk populations.
My recent research has revealed disparities in functional limitations due to memory loss or confusion among different racial groups and employment statuses. Retired and unemployed individuals, as well as Black/African American and Hispanic adults, were more likely to experience difficulties in daily activities and social functioning related to SCD. These findings call for culturally sensitive interventions and improved access to care for vulnerable populations, particularly those facing socioeconomic and racial disparities.
Overall, my research utilizes a multifaceted approach, employing systematic reviews, population-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 80 manuscripts and 80 professional conference presentations with approximately 75 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 literacy-sensitive educational materials tailored to the diverse needs of patients, ensuring they can effectively self-manage their condition. A comprehensive health literacy demands assessment of an online inhaler education video series revealed that while most inhaler-use videos were well-structured and actionable, their overall clarity was lacking. These findings underscore the importance of developing patient education resources that align with health literacy principles to improve understanding and proper inhaler and nebulizer use.
In addition, I am dedicated to identifying and addressing socioeconomic disparities in COPD care. My recent studies have uncovered significant health disparities among medically underserved adults with COPD. In one secondary analysis of 2019 BRFSS data, we found that less than half of adults with subjective cognitive decline (SCD) discussed their cognitive symptoms with healthcare professionals. Notably, males and binge drinkers were less likely to communicate these symptoms, while unemployed and retired individuals were more likely to engage in discussions. This research highlights critical gaps in patient-provider communication regarding cognitive symptoms and emphasizes the importance of tailored interventions for at-risk populations.
My recent research has revealed disparities in functional limitations due to memory loss or confusion among different racial groups and employment statuses. Retired and unemployed individuals, as well as Black/African American and Hispanic adults, were more likely to experience difficulties in daily activities and social functioning related to SCD. These findings call for culturally sensitive interventions and improved access to care for vulnerable populations, particularly those facing socioeconomic and racial disparities.
Overall, my research utilizes a multifaceted approach, employing systematic reviews, population-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 diagnosed with COPD.
- Evaluate web-based technologies designed to support COPD self-management.
- 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 80 manuscripts and 80 professional conference presentations with approximately 75 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 604 Seminar in Health
- HHE 605 Advanced Theoretical and Scientific Basis of Health Education and Health Promotion
- HHE 699 Dissertation Research
