Fox, 2007

• The results of the Pew Internet study
• 1/5 state that they have a disability
• 51% go online
• 86% of users with a disability look for health-related information
  • (1) specific disease
  • (2) treatments
  • (3) nutrition
  • (4) fitness
  • (5) medication
  • Alternative and complimentary therapies
• 53% say their last search had an impact
• 69% asked their doctor about something that they read on the internet or asked for a second opinion
• 56% had a change in habits or thoughts
• Less likely to start with search engines
• Chronic conditions – more likely to search online
• Responses mostly positive
• Most don’t check the reputability of a site
• Most are older and less educated
• 80% of older Americans have chronic conditions
• 46% increase of individuals with special needs – access to the internet
• Chronic conditions – just as likely to have internet access
• Most likely to use email online
• “e-patients” – internet users with conditions who use health information
  • Usually looking for themselves
  • 56% use search engines
  • Most visit one site
  • 50% then take it to a doctor
  • Doctor seen as a consultant
• Most reassured by online information
• Empowered by giving advice
• Older, minorities, less educated – more likely to have more recent diagnosis
  • Once online, become active
  • Minorities – cell phones
• Critical analysis
  • What are special needs?
  • Less internet access at work if you don’t work as much
  • Recommend sites/keywords
  • Docs should empower and coach
  • Those who need the information are less likely to have it