Dr Google
Matthew:
November 10th, 2006
The New England Journal of Medicine has published a case study that argues for the inclusion of Google as a point of reference for General Practioners. It points to a number of cases where doctors have entered symptoms as keywords into the search engine, and obtained an accurate diagnosis.
As so many people have access to the largest information reservoir the world has ever known, it is surely only a matter of time before people diagnose themselves, and perhaps even treat themselves, according to information they have found on the internet. This self-reliance obviously has its risks, but has the potential to radically re-define the role of the GP.
It is only natural that people should want the security and confidence that a qualified individual in a white coat provides, but as we become more used to using Google and other internet databases to locate specific information, (for example, finding directions on the internet, getting financial advice), and then acting on that information, it only requires a short step to diagnose a simple ailment and even find out how to treat it.
November 15th, 2006 at 6:05 pm
I had a skiing accident in March 2006. I tore my meniscus in my left knee and I needed a knee arthriscopy. I used Google to learn all about my injury and then I researched places to get it treated. I had the operation in Bangkok (because I was in Malaysia by the time I knew I needed an operation) and I used Google again to help decide which hospital to use for the operation. I did not find anything online in the way of patient accounts, so I wrote a detailed account of my knee arthroscopy operation on my blog.
The web and Google in particular is going to play an ever increasing role in diagnosis, treatment and recovery for patients. I believe 100% that if you thoroughly research your condition online, you will make a faster and more complete recovery. Your local GP has to look after thousands of people in your local community. There is a limit to how much they can do for you. Help yourself and use the web!