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Internet use amongst New Zealand general practitioners
J Eberhart-Phillips1, K Hall, G P Herbison
1Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Dunedin School of Medicine.
The New Zealand Medical Journal
|June 29, 2000
Summary
New Zealand doctors and patients widely use the Internet for medical information. This trend significantly impacts healthcare, potentially altering the doctor-patient relationship.
Area of Science:
- Medical Informatics
- Digital Health Trends
Background:
- The Internet has become a significant source of health information for the public.
- Understanding its impact on medical practice is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the extent of Internet usage by New Zealand doctors.
- To investigate the influence of online medical information on their clinical practice.
Main Methods:
- A postal questionnaire was distributed to general practitioners (GPs) in Otago and Southland.
- The survey assessed doctors' Internet use and their perceptions of patient online information seeking.
Main Results:
- 65% of GPs returned the questionnaire; 68% reported monthly Internet use.
- 71% of GPs noted patients seeking medical information online.
- Nearly half of GPs expressed concerns about the Internet's effect on the doctor-patient relationship.
Conclusions:
- Internet utilization by both New Zealand doctors and patients is prevalent.
- This widespread use is expected to significantly influence current and future medical practice.
- While offering benefits, the Internet may also introduce challenges to the doctor-patient dynamic.