Healthcare Information on the Internet

Today many people are using the Internet for health research with technology enabling access to a thousands of sites and millions of bytes of health-related information and treatment options.

The glut of healthcare information on the internet is overwhelming. It often leaves patients confused and misdirected. Referred to as an "infodemic," the abundance of online health information can lead to a more informed public or it can create undue anxiety, negatively influence medical decision-making and lead to poor health outcomes. Searching symptoms online can cause confusion, unnecessary worry and potentially dangerous delays in proper medical care with a confusing maze of data, symptoms and treatment and anecdotal experiences of others that may not relate to your own.

Popular search engines continuously change on what determines which content rises to the top of search results and it is not necessarily based on its relevance or accuracy. It’s always important to consider the source and not model a treatment plan based on Dr. Google or Dr. Artificial Intelligence who is often known to make up responses based on limited data. Information found on the internet can be a valuable health tool, but its use without professional guidance can be harmful. Your Doctor or healthcare provider is your definitive source regarding your diagnosis and options for treatment. They understand the science and their experience makes them better at knowing the difference between various possible reasons for your symptoms.

Most of us struggle with this at some point. We are curious, confused and tempted to look at any site that comes across our search engine. We enter into the doctor-patient relationship with preconceived ideas from a variety of internet sources ranging from credible to down right dangerous. However forcing your provider to first debunk bad information before getting to the guidance he or she can provide to really address your concerns, can sidetrack your appointment. It is more advantageous to begin the discussion with a more targeted approach allowing the provider to first assess and evaluate your condition. Then you can ask any questions about the results of your internet health research.

Use the following questions to organize your thoughts before meeting with your Doctor. Be as specific as you can about your internet search as a means of gathering health information. Internet searches for medical information are a growing and common

place and doctors are increasingly encouraged to welcome their patients' online research and use the opportunity for patient education and more informed discussions.

Here are a few ways to start a positive conversation with your healthcare provider about what you read online. Remember to be prepared for your appointment, it saves valuable time and present your points in a clear, concise manner. Make sure they are relevant to the conversation. Approach the conversation in a collegial way letting your Doctor know you value their opinion and your comments or questions are made to help you evaluate what you read.

Questions for your Doctor?

• I want to briefly mention an article I read on the internet and would like your opinion.

• I'm interested in this because . . .

• Does it have any validity for my case ?

• The website I found this on was . . .

  
  

Remember a physician’s quality should have the greatest impact on your medical care with their advice the most beneficial. You're both working toward a common goal - your health and well-being. Web sites and social media as a tool for your health can be beneficial however always rely on your healthcare provider to help you assess their credibility, understand possible treatment plans and help you make educated decisions about your care.

Next - Verifiable Science: How to determine if what you are reading on the internet is reliable, trustworthy knowledge in science and healthcare.