Since last week's post, Pew Internet and American Life health expert Susannah Fox released a new report on America's habits in seeking health care, support and advice.
Not surprisingly, the report found that most Americans, especially those with rare diseases, turn to their peers for health support and advice. The advent of social media and online channels of communication has increased their networks of peer support -- and has helped Americans build online communities of individuals with similar issues or helpful information.
Online channels provide an outlet to easily find and connect with those with the same or similar conditions as well as health care professionals and disease experts. This connection can be an invaluable tool for patients with chronic or rare diseases.
My grandmother struggled with Parkinson's Disease for more than 25 years, and one of her greatest resources was her community of peers who were fighting against the same illness. She eventually became the president of the support group, which was a constant source of information, guidance and support to help her maintain the highest quality of life possible. Today, I wonder what her support group would look like. It might take an online form via facebook or another social network -- at least as a way to track members and reach new people.
While some express concern that seeking health information or advice online can steer patients toward self-diagnosis or poor health outcomes, I would contend that the increased information sharing and networking provides, on balance, substantial health benefits to those who seek out health information and support online.
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