Internet oncology: increased benefit and risk for patients and oncologists

Whether the benefits will outweigh the risks of electronic health care remains to be seen, and to a large extent the question is moot; consumers, providers, and interested third parties have ensured its existence. One can surmise, or at least hope, that all interested parties will become increasingly sophisticated in both the delivery and consumption of e-health information, and that ultimately consumer, advocate, and physician demands will help shape the industry into a self-regulated entity that balances the need for high-grade information with a commitment to the principles of privacy and autonomy.