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Virtual connections: Internet health care
Richard T Penson1, Renee C Benson, Karen Parles
1Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Cox 548, 100 Blossom Street, Boston, MA 02114-2617, USA. rpenson@partners.org
The Oncologist
|December 20, 2002
Summary
The internet offers new ways for patients to find health information and connect with providers, but raises concerns about virtual communication and data privacy. Navigating online health resources requires careful consideration of benefits and drawbacks.
Area of Science:
- Medical Informatics
- Health Communication
- Patient Support
Background:
- The Kenneth B. Schwartz Center promotes compassionate healthcare.
- The internet is transforming medical practice, presenting both opportunities and challenges.
- Physicians and patients must adapt to digital health advancements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the impact of the internet on patient health information seeking.
- To explore the use of online resources by patients with serious illnesses.
- To examine the implications of electronic communication between patients and healthcare providers.
Main Methods:
- Case study presentation of a lung cancer patient utilizing the internet for information.
- Discussion of patient empowerment through online health platforms.
- Analysis of challenges and benefits of internet use in healthcare.
Main Results:
- Patients use the internet as a coping mechanism for health information seeking.
- Online resources can be limited or confusing, necessitating curated platforms.
- Electronic communication raises issues of confidentiality and logistical integration for physicians.
Conclusions:
- The internet facilitates patient engagement but requires careful navigation.
- Balancing the benefits of online health information with privacy concerns is crucial.
- Further exploration is needed on integrating e-communication into clinical practice.