2002

Use of Internet health services in Norway

Use of Internet health services in Norway

Hege Kristin Andreassen, Norwegian Centre for Telemedicine Anne Grete Sandaune, Norwegian Centre for Telemedicine Deede Gammon, Norwegian Centre for Telemedicine Per Hjortdahl, Norwegian Centre for Telemedicine

Abstract

Background: This study investigates the assumption that the Norwegian population's use Internet health services will have an impact on health related attitudes and behaviour. Material and methods: N1006 and n1018 subjects in 2000 and 2001 respectively were randomly selected from the Norwegian population and interviewed over the telephone. In 2001, a web-based questionnaire was presented to those of a 2800 member Internet panel who reported having used Internet for health purposes (n600). Of these, 476 (79%) responded to our web-based questionnaire. Results: The percentage of Norwegians who use Internet for health purposes has increased from 19% in 2000 to 31% in 2001. While the GP is steadily ranked as the most important source of health information by 79% in 2000 and 77% in 2001, there is small but significant increase in those who rank Internet as important; 29% in 2000 to 33% in 2001. Based on information gathered from the Internet, 33% of the population in 2001 have asked their GP specific questions, 11% have suggested diagnoses, 21% have altered their diet and/or lifestyle, 10% have started with health products or programs without consulting their GP, 13% have experienced anxiety, while 48% have experienced relief. Those who would use the opportunity to use email in interaction with their GP has increased significantly from 30% in 2000 to 45% in 2001. Interpretation: Norwegians use of Internet appears supplement rather than replace ordinary health services. Health personnel will need to respond to Internet-generated attitudes and behaviour in the population

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