How the Internet Is Transforming the Physician-Patient Relationship

James G. Anderson, PhD, Professor of Medical Sociology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana

Introduction

The Internet is rapidly changing the doctor-patient relationship. By providing access to medical information, online medical advice, computer-based home-monitoring systems, and online support groups, the Internet is making it possible for patients to assume much more responsibility for their own health care. In doing so, however, patients may challenge the traditional role of the physician in providing care. At the same time, the Internet is prompting patients to ask new questions about access to cost and quality of care information. These issues are thoroughly covered in a soon-to-be published text by James Anderson and Kenneth Goodman^[1] and are outlined below.

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Cite this: How the Internet Is Transforming the Physician-Patient Relationship - Medscape - Nov 20, 2001.

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How the Internet Is Transforming the Physician-Patient Relationship

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