Dealing with the “Internet” Patient

Navigating the Challenges of the Internet-Empowered Patient

As healthcare providers, we are undoubtedly familiar with the adage that “knowledge is power.” And, in the age of the internet, patients are amassing more knowledge than ever before.

With a plethora of medical information available at their fingertips, patients are becoming increasingly self-reliant, proactive, and – dare I say – “net-savvy.”

However, as any physician worth their salt will attest, this newfound access to information can also lead to confusion, misperception, and, in some cases, downright obstinacy.

In this article, we will delve into the peculiarities of the “net-savvy” patient, and discuss strategies for navigating the challenges that these patients present.

The Net-Savvy Patient: A New Breed

It is no secret that the internet has fundamentally altered the way we access information. According to a study by the Pew Research Center, 72% of internet users have looked for health information online, and nearly 20% of internet users have consulted online health communities.

As a result of this increased access to information, patients are becoming more informed, more opinionated, and, in some cases, more obstinate.

These patients arrive at appointments armed with a veritable cornucopia of knowledge, but, as is often the case, they lack the expertise to properly interpret and contextualize this information.

As a result, healthcare providers may find themselves struggling to reconcile the patient’s understanding of their condition with reality.

Furthermore, these patients may also have strong opinions and preferences regarding their treatment, and may be resistant to the healthcare provider’s recommendations.

This can lead to difficult and time-consuming interactions, which can be frustrating for both the patient and the healthcare provider.

Navigating the Challenges of the Net-Savvy Patient

1. Listen and Validate

As the old saying goes, “you have two ears and one mouth for a reason.” It is important to listen to the patient’s concerns and validate their feelings. This can help to establish trust and build a rapport with the patient.

• Offer Education

Provide the patient with accurate and reliable information to help them understand their condition and the recommended treatment plan. This can help to allay their fears and concerns and increase their trust in the healthcare provider.

• Encourage Questions

Encourage the patient to ask questions and express any concerns they may have. This can help to identify any misconceptions or inaccuracies in their understanding of their condition and treatment.

• Encourage a Partnership

Work with the patient to establish a partnership in their healthcare. Encourage them to take an active role in their treatment and to share any information or resources they have found online that may be relevant to their condition.

• Consider Referral

In some cases, a referral to a specialist or a healthcare provider with specific expertise in the patient’s condition may be necessary. This can help to provide the patient with the most accurate and up-to-date information and increase their satisfaction with the healthcare experience.

• Keep Communication Open

Maintaining open and clear communication with the patient is crucial in dealing with the “net-savvy” patient. This can help to build trust and establish a positive healthcare relationship.

In conclusion, as healthcare providers, it is important to understand this new patient population and develop strategies to effectively navigate these complex patient interactions.

By listening, educating, and encouraging a partnership, healthcare providers can build trust and establish positive healthcare relationships with their “net-savvy” patients.

And, let’s be real, as healthcare providers, a little levity and humor can go a long way in diffusing tense situations. So, let’s not take ourselves too seriously, and remember to enjoy the journey of providing care to our patients, “net-savvy” or not.

Article written by Beni