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Parent’s use of the Internet in the search for healthcare information and subsequent impact on the doctor–patient relationship

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Abstract

Background

The Internet is an unavoidable source of healthcare information. This information, both reliable and unreliable, has previously been shown to influence carer’s decisions.

Aims

Our aim was to evaluate this information seeking behavior among parents and its subsequent potential impact on the doctor–patient relationship.

Method

We undertook a cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey of paediatric outpatients. Enrollment took place over 4 weeks in March 2015. There were no inclusion or exclusion criteria and enrollment was voluntary. In total 100 questionnaires were completed.

Results

General Practitioners were the most common source of healthcare information. The Internet ranked third as a reliable source of healthcare information. The Internet was commonly used as an educational resource to learn about causes, treatment, and medications. A significant percentage of our population expressed concern regarding Internet information reliability. A small percentage of parents were concerned that disclosing Internet usage may worsen the relationship with their doctor.

Conclusions

Parents showed a willingness to learn about diseases and treatments, and felt that the Internet was a good resource to do so. This study shows that open discussion about Internet usage between parents and doctors is not common and carers feel at risk of judgment should they admit to Internet usage. The Internet should be seen as a positive adjunct to patient education which can improve understanding, thus strengthening the doctor–patient relationship. The Internet will never replace the role of healthcare professionals but must be seen as an integral part of a multi-disciplinary approach.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital Kerry, Tralee, Co. Kerry, Ireland

    S. Harvey, A. Memon, R. Khan & F. Yasin

Authors
  1. S. Harvey
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  2. A. Memon
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  3. R. Khan
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  4. F. Yasin
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to S. Harvey.

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Conflict of interest

We have read and understood IJMS policy on declaration of interests and declare that we have no competing interests.

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Harvey, S., Memon, A., Khan, R. et al. Parent’s use of the Internet in the search for healthcare information and subsequent impact on the doctor–patient relationship. Ir J Med Sci 186, 821–826 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-017-1555-6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-017-1555-6

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