Need treatment fast? Many people now turn to Google before a healthcare professional. From checking symptoms online to buying medicines online and taking advice from social media influencers, healthcare is increasingly becoming a do-it-yourself activity.
Convenience is a big part of the appeal. Information is available instantly – no need to wait weeks to see a GP – and online communities often provide reassurance from people with similar experiences.
Researching a health problem on the internet can feel empowering. But while greater access to health information has benefits, the rise of DIY healthcare also comes with risks. Research suggests that diagnosing and treating yourself, or relying on unqualified sources for advice, can lead to mistakes, the wrong use of medicines and delays in getting professional help.
The internet has changed the way people access health information. A few decades ago, someone worried about a symptom might consult a doctor, pharmacist or medical reference book. Today, a search engine can generate thousands of results in seconds.
The problem is that not all health information online is reliable. Websites can be difficult to navigate, use complex language, or provide incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate information.
Social media platforms in particular play a major role in the rapid spread of inaccurate and...