WhAT’S up DoC? An eConomeTRiC STuDy of The online SeARCh foR meDiCAl infoRmATion By pATienTS

Abstract

This article aims to study the uses of Internet for health in terms of online medical information consultation. Are surfers looking for information on Internet in order to understand or confirm the doctor’s diagnosis (Internet as a complement), or to replace or contest his diagnosis (Internet as a substitute)? We conducted an empirical study on 1344 Bretons Internet-users and developed three Logit econometric models. We note that the main use of Internet in health is the search of information about a disease or symptoms of disease. The results are consistent with the literature review and research shows that online information on health is higher for women, for people with a low level of health and for those who spend more time on Internet. The profiles of the users who are looking for additional information are different from those looking for alternative information. One of the advantages of having access to medical information online is the reduced costs in terms of time, access and income. Active people both in terms of professional activity, but also in terms of time spent on Internet are likely to seek more information to have a second opinion. Health status is an important explanatory factor for alternative information. Similarly, the most technophile people tend to strongly trust in Internet. However, the survey was not detailed enough to conclude to a decline in real medical consultations and to qualify the impact of the internet on the confidence placed in physician.