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Online health advice boomingDate: 14/01/2008 15:09:39
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A rising number of Britons are turning to the internet for medical diagnosis rather than visiting their GPs, a new study reveals.
Research conducted by UKTV Style found that one third of respondents (38 per cent) have been online to diagnose medical conditions.
Carried out for the station's new Spa of Embarrassing Illnesses series, the poll shows that 48 per cent of the 2,000 people quizzed stated that they were embarrassed about visiting the doctor about certain conditions, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or bowel complaints.
Of the 2,000 people quizzed for the survey, 44 per cent said that they were deterred from going to their local surgery by the prospect of a physical examination.
Amanda Hamilton, 33, presenter of the television series, said: "Feeling embarrassed about their condition can play a key role in preventing them getting treatment.
"Although it's great the public are more informed, a supportive doctor who has time to listen to patient queries still has a vital role to play."
A recent US study by digital marketing company iCrossing found that the internet is rapidly overtaking doctors as the most popular resource for healthcare information, with search engines the main point of access to healthcare searches.
Talk to a qualified doctor now about any health matter on 0906 665 8002. Calls cost £1.50 per minute from a BT landline. 24 hrs 7 days a week. Callers must have bill payer's permission and be over 18. All calls are recorded but you do not have to give your name. All Doctors are GMC registered and either fully qualified GPs or post membership hospital specialists. Not for emergency use, diagnosis or prognosis. Not designed to replace a face to face consultation with a medical professional, and any callers taking such advice in isolation do so at their own risk. In the case of a medical emergency, dial 999. Calls last a maximum of 20 minutes.
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