Ling Zhang

Dr. Ling Zhang


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

4Years (2023-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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LZLing Zhang
Ling Zhang
SCSherrie Chung
Sherrie Chung
WSWendan Shi
Wendan Shi
DCDion Candelaria
Dion Candelaria
RGRobyn Gallagher
Robyn Gallagher
Due to linguistic and cultural barriers, immigrants often have limited access to health information. Online health information is popular and accessible, but quality is questionable and its benefits dependent on an individual’s eHealth literacy. This study examined online health information-seeking behaviours, eHealth literacy and its predictors among first-generation Chinese immigrants. A sample of 356 Chinese immigrants living in Australia completed an anonymous paper-based survey, including sociodemographic, clinical data, English proficiency, health literacy, online health information-seeking behaviours, and eHealth literacy. Linear regression models analyzed predictive factors of eHealth literacy. Participants were aged mean 59.3 years, female (68.3%), 53.1% completed university, and their English proficiency was rated fair/poor by 75.1%. Participants perceived online health information as useful (61.6%) and important (56.2%) to their health. Health information accessed was often related to lifestyle (61.2%), health resources (44.9%), diseases (36.0%), and medications (30.9%). Inadequate health literacy and eHealth literacy occurred in 48.3% and 44.9%, respectively. Age, number of technological devices used, education, and health status were independently associated with eHealth literacy. While most Chinese immigrants used online health information, many had inadequate eHealth literacy. Healthcare authorities and providers should support older immigrants, those with lower education and poorer health, and those less engaged with technology in online health information use by providing culturally and linguistically appropriate information, directing immigrants to credible websites, and involving them in health material development processes.

28 August 2024 in Patient Education and Counseling
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
JLJialin Li
Jialin Li
LZLing Zhang
Ling Zhang
NLNicole Lowres
Nicole Lowres
WSWendan Shi
Wendan Shi
KHKazuma Honda
Kazuma Honda
RGRobyn Gallagher
Robyn Gallagher
To explore communication experiences, resource accessibility/quality, and communication strategies cardiac nurses use when caring for Chinese-speaking patients. In this exploratory qualitative study, nurses were recruited from professional association members and interviewed on communication barriers/facilitators, resource accessibility/quality, and communication strategies used when caring for Chinese-speaking cardiac patients. Transcripts were thematically analysed. Nurses (n = 11) were primarily female (7/11), with 2/11 Chinese-speaking. The themes discussed centred on two areas that created difficulty in communication, including the lack of a common language and uncertainty of the Chinese culture. Dependence on interpreters was highlighted and challenges noted included limited availability and difficulty scheduling, variable quality and approaches, and lack of communication resources leading to a dependence on poor quality materials. Nurses were uncertain about Chinese culture and how to communicate, particularly in relation to family-centred beliefs, mental and sexual health, medication, and diet. Health communication with Chinese-speaking patients needs to address multiple challenges to be effective. The findings emphasise the need to optimise interpreting services and provide nurses with cultural competency training and tailored resources to improve their understanding of Chinese immigrants' needs. These recommendations will support nurses to address identified language and cultural uncertainties.

6 October 2026
Verified
Book Chapter
Closed access
PDF file
LZLing Zhang
Ling Zhang
RGRobyn Gallagher
Robyn Gallagher
JOJessica Orchard
Jessica Orchard
DCDion Candelaria
Dion Candelaria