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[Disease-oriented Internet use in outpatients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases]
J G Richter1, A Becker, C Specker
1Rheumzentrum Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany. richter@rheumanet.org
Zeitschrift Fur Rheumatologie
|June 30, 2004
Summary
Many patients with rheumatic diseases use the internet for health information. Approximately 50% of patients have the necessary technical access and motivation for online communication, highlighting the need for a user-friendly platform.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Health Informatics
- Patient Engagement
Background:
- Developing a nationwide network for systemic inflammatory rheumatic diseases requires understanding patient digital access.
- Improved communication and cooperation aim to enhance research quality and patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess available hardware and software for patients.
- To determine internet access, usage patterns, and patient needs for online communication and information.
- To inform the development of an internet platform for the systemic inflammatory rheumatic diseases network.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted among 400 patients in outpatient clinics.
- Data collected via questionnaire included hardware, software, internet access, and utilization patterns.
- 326 patient responses were analyzed.
Main Results:
- 163 patients (approx. 50%) had internet access, with younger, better-educated individuals using it more frequently.
- 55.8% of internet users searched for medical information, focusing on treatment options and disease-specific details.
- No significant dependency on gender or marital status for internet access was observed.
Conclusions:
- The internet is a vital information resource for patients with rheumatic diseases.
- Technical feasibility and patient motivation enable online communication for about half of the patient population.
- The network's internet platform must align with patient needs, offering reliable, high-value scientific information to ensure adoption.