Crisis communication strategies for health officials

Abstract

BackgroundMixed messaging among health officials are prevalent amid COVID-19. Crisis communication strategies have the potential to help health officials effectively address issues such as mixed messages and improve their crisis communication efficacy. However, there is a dearth of insights in the literature. Therefore, to bridge the research gap, this study aims to examine practical strategies health officials can utilize to improve their crisis communication efficacy.MethodsA literature review on effective crisis communication strategies amid COVID-19 was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and PsycINFO, with a focus on scholarly literature published in English.ResultsThe findings of the study identified the following strategies that health officials can utilize to improve their crisis communication capabilities: (1) develop fact-based, transparent, and accountable messaging, (2) utilize people-centered and empathetic persuasive strategies, and (3) leverage international collaboration for consistent messaging and comprehensive crisis communication.ConclusionCOVID-19 has challenged health officials with unprecedented crisis communication duties and responsibilities. In this study, we underscored the importance of effective crisis communication amid global health emergencies like COVID-19, and identified communication strategies health officials could adopt or adapt to improve their crisis communication efficacy. Future research could explore strategies health officials can use to better communicate with government officials and media professionals to further help health officials improve their crisis communication capabilities, their abilities to avoid preventable miscommunication or mixed messaging, and in turn, society's collective strengthen in curbing and controlling the pandemic.

Diet Quality of Older African Americans: Impact of Knowledge and Perceived Threat of COVID-19

“…The significance of accurate, unified, and timely public health messages was clearly demonstrated during the pandemic [ 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 ]. Mixed messages about the severity, risk of transmission, prevention, and treatment of COVID-19 left many worried and unsure which messages were scientifically sound and which were myths [ 9 , 11 ]. In many AA communities, access to testing and eventually vaccines was delayed.…”

Anxiety-Induced Hospital Avoidance Behaviours During The Covid-19 Pandemic.

“…The present study shows a significant positive relationship between New Mothers' Covid and Anxiety. Throughout the pandemic, numerous governments, including China, Ireland, Finland, Norway, and India, have successfully communicated their COVID-19 strategies to the public (Su et al, 2022). In India, the communication strategy was effectively delivered to the public through various channels such as television, radio, social media, and caller tunes to prevent the spread of fake information.…”

“…Secondly, to combat false information and prevent the spread of harmful rumours. And finally, to ensure that the delivery of COVID-19 information does not lead to unintended consequences such as mental health issues (Su et al, 2022). In this context the second hypothesis of the study is adopted as given.…”

Assessing COVID‐19 crisis communication and health outcomes based on the Intervention Ladder

“…Effective communication is essential, especially in times of uncertainty (Cross et al, 2017; Su et al, 2022). In spring 2020, at the beginning of the SARS‐CoV‐2 (COVID‐19) pandemic in the United States, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) officials sent announcements to faculty, staff, students and UAB Medicine to guide actions.…”