HEALTH INFORMATION: THE ROLE OF INTERNET

ABSTRACT

Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the presence of disease or infirmity. The context in which people consume information about health has dramatically changed with the diffusion of internet. Health information through internet is an emerging field in the intersection of medical informatics with that of health services and information delivered by internet in the urban areas. The present paper focuses on the guidelines useful for developing and strengthening the information and support on health through internet and how people make use of it.

Access by and individual for the health related information is well accepted and has become a right. Accordingly the present paper attempts to ask three leading questions. First, to what extent people use internet to get health information? Second, if people are aware about the health risks lead by the inaccurate information provided by the internet. Third, whether this technologically facilitated information is fruitful for them, who otherwise would rather visit a doctor’s chamber to get the appropriate treatment? The result of the study would provide critical insights into the guidelines of this system to improve and authenticate this facility.

The present medical model providing information to individuals through internet is beyond reach. To achieve the objectives of this paper network data collection and theoretical analysis were utilized to seek responses.

According to the preliminary findings this paper will guide how the health information model shifts to a social model approach, as this change will empower people by enhancing the access and availability of health information through internet.

Finally, more research is required for the confirmation of the findings of the issue of health information through internet and its reciprocal relationship with the well-being of people at large.

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