What Internet Does For You & Your Health

Prior to any medical diagnosis you or doctor visit, you are able to check things out for yourself. Textbooks in your personal home library and the public library along with information your health care providers may have given you is initial information most patients are exposed to initially. The Internet is now the primary source for health information for patients and health care providers all over the world. This is the only place you can find valid, up-to-date medical information from all over the world. In a few hours you know as much if not more than any new medical school graduate about your health conditions.

A survey done by the CDC (Center for Disease Control) reports that over 50% of Americans look up health information on line in 2009. Women were more likely than men to research health information on the Internet. Direct patient-doctor interactions like email, prescription refills, and appointments were used infrequently (5%). Disease specific information is the most searched health information followed by medication. nutrition and fitness.* Most of the patients discussed their findings with their doctors. Key word search using the search engine, Google, was the primary way information was located. Specific websites were second. Over 98% reported the material was reliable and easy to understand.

Information like this helps you and your medical care team help you get the best care possible. Wellness, prevention, early detection and treatment are a few hours and a few clicks away - free. The Internet is a valuable resource that does the following:

• provide you with information that will keep you healthy and well
• help you find the latest research, clinical trials, treatments, doctors for any illness
• allow you to communicate with your health care providers directly (email, telemedicine)
• find and share research thereby promoting your health literacy i.e learning and teaching for every one involved
• help you find virtual and real communities that provide support for your conditions and diseases as well as social interaction
• search and shop for insurance and other medical aid, supplies, etc.

Use the Internet to help you stay in touch with your health and keep it in your hands. Best health!
by J.L. Richardson, M.D., family medicine physician and author of Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide.


*study from Dept. of Family Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Journal of American Board of Family Medicine, 2006