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The Internet: a new instrument in a virtual "doctor's bag"
J Glover1, H K Grossetta Nardini
1Cushing/Whitney Medical Library, Yale University, New Haven, USA.
Connecticut Medicine
|July 1, 1996
Summary
Physicians can leverage the Internet for professional communication and accessing resources. Evaluating online information for accuracy is crucial for effective use of this powerful tool.
Area of Science:
- Medical Informatics
- Digital Health
Background:
- The Internet offers significant potential as a professional tool for physicians.
- Understanding its capabilities and limitations is essential for modern medical practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To inform physicians about the strengths and weaknesses of the Internet as a professional resource.
- To highlight various Internet tools and resources available for medical professionals.
Main Methods:
- Discussion of common Internet tools: electronic mail, mailing lists, newsgroups, telnet, file transfer protocol, gopher, and the World Wide Web.
- Mention of physician-specific websites and the importance of information evaluation.
- Introduction to regional networks like CHIME-Net for data exchange.
Main Results:
- The Internet facilitates diverse communication methods for physicians.
- Specialized online resources exist, but require critical appraisal for accuracy and timeliness.
- Integrated systems like CHIME-Net offer practical benefits for financial and patient data exchange.
Conclusions:
- Physicians should embrace the Internet as a valuable professional asset.
- Critical evaluation of online medical information is paramount.
- Guidance from hospital libraries or information services is recommended for adoption.