When the Internet Becomes the Doctor: Seeking Health Information Online

Abstract

It is not unusual for people to turn to online resources when they have health concerns. Two common resources for seeking health information are websites dedicated to health issues and online support forums where people talk about health-related issues. Research shows that, in many ways, online health sources provide good information that helps people to make informed decisions about diet, exercise, and other day-to-day health choices. Community forums are especially strong and nonthreatening outlets for social support. Unfortunately, online information seeking about health issues also has its drawbacks, including people misdiagnosing themselves in lieu of a professional consultation, patients changing health care plans provided by physicians based on information discovered online, and negative support from people in web communities. This research-informed fictive case focuses on Tyrell, a single father who is worried about his 3-year-old daughter’s health and how he goes about seeking information online to help care for her.

In this case study, we examine some of the trends in seeking health information online as well as two theoretical perspectives—information uncertainty and hyperpersonal computer-mediated communication—that help to put online information seeking in context. That is followed by the story of Tyrell, a father who is nervous about his daughter’s congested sinuses. Exploring his situation helps to illustrate just how online information-seeking might come into play when a person has health concerns.