Parents of children with chronic diseases report that health information Web
sites are useful resources and don't undermine their trust in health
professionals or their children's medications, according to a study by the
University of York in England, BBC News reports
(http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/3703465.stm).
The researchers found that most people were aware of the potential dangers
of online health information and were confident they could distinguish
between legitimate information and "rubbish," the BBC reports. The study
stated that people are "sensible" about online resources and that there is
"not necessarily" a need for quality guarantees for online health
information. The study also found that people search the Internet in
addition to other information sources, said Dr. Sarah Nettleton, the study's
lead researcher.
The study also questioned some of the assumptions about the "digital
divide." For example, the study found many low-income households "making
highly productive use of e-health," while wealthier households make little
or no use of such Internet resources. However, Internet access was greater
among higher-income households, according to Nettleton.
Dr. Paul Cundy, joint chair of the British Medical Association's IT
committee, said the study supported the BMA's policy to encourage patients
to seek health information online. "Doctors should not be fearful of
patients carrying Internet printouts," he said.
Study results are based on Web sites containing information on childhood
eczema, asthma and diabetes, and a survey of 358 households with at least
one child who had one or more of these conditions (BBC News, 5/12).
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