Internet and its Impact on the Patient-Physician Relationship Patient Visiting Various Dental Clinics in Northern India
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Readily available health-related information over the internet has led to increased patient awareness, and this might be a possible factor straining the patient-physician relationship.
AIM: To assess the impact of the internet on the patient-physician relationship amongst patient visiting various dental clinics in Northern India.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Of the 600 pre-tested online questionnaires distributed, a total of 456 (response rate 76%) adequately filled questionnaires were analysed for the impact of internet on the patient-physician relationship. Responses were subsequently tabulated and analysed using SPSS Version 21.0. Statistical significance was kept as p≤0.05.
RESULTS: A statistically significant difference (p=.04) was seen amongst males and females regarding their internet usage with a higher proportion of health information being seeked by males. Most internet users (66.6%) followed their physician’s advice before they began using the internet with behavioural changes seen mostly in the 18-30 years age group (75.64%), yet only 14.38% of them informing their physician about such changes.
CONCLUSION: It is important that people be advised about the potential risks of believing in sources from the internet with physicians also being advised to spend more quality time with their patients to alleviate them of their fears and doubts.
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