Georgina Edwards

I am a PhD student in the School of Psychology supervised by Associate Professor Diana Dorstyn and Associate Professor Melissa Oxlad.

My research investigates the health information-seeking behaviours of individuals with a Spinal Cord Injury (SCI). This research also includes the investigation of Health Literacy and eHealth Literacy interventions for individuals with SCI and how these interventions can be developed to subsequently improve patient health outcomes. I am also interested in developing strategies that promote positive healthcare behaviours in the SCI population, including strategies that facilitate effective communication between these patients and their healthcare providers.

The overarching aim of my research is to develop evidence-based tools and strategies to help those with SCI critically evaluate the health information they access and, ultimately, empower them to promote their well-being and minimise the risk of future medical complications related to their injury. I also seek to collaborate with disability service providers to develop guidelines for research end-users - including government and non-government organisations, health and medical professionals and consumers with SCI, so that they can effectively target health information to meet the needs of individuals with SCI and their families.