Why Are Patients Turning to Online Sources for Health Advice?
The Internet’s constant availability attracts patients who want to embark on their own journeys to care and self-educate on personal symptoms, conditions, and treatments. This phenomenon has gained traction, and the extent is alarming. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that 58.5% of American adults searched for health and medical information online between July and December in 2022.
Many choose to self-diagnose and discover treatment options given the lack of time for appointments, long waits to get into the office, and the limited time providers have to meet with patients.
The rise in the use of smart health phone apps and online health-related resources has shown the desire of patients to manage their own health. Many of these patients opt to use the personal accounts of others, whether that be in the form of feedback, testimonials, or community forums.
The Internet is an essential source of information that helps patients learn about their possible treatment options, costs, and if seeing a doctor is worth it. Digital health resources are a fundamental aspect of the health care system that helps patients research and make informed decisions about their health care.
Why Healthcare Communication Is Falling Short
Healthcare professionals are a trusted source of medical information. Unfortunately, many organizations struggle to communicate with patients effectively in digital environments. Technology cannot solve this problem; a culture focused on communication and patient experience is critical.
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