The potential of consumer health informatics.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the rapidly evolving field of consumer health informatics (CHI), which is empowering the patient and the public.


METHODS
Published articles, research studies, and government reports pertaining to interactive health communication and CHI.


CONCLUSIONS
Application of CHI can provide information to patients and the public, promote self-care, enable informed decision-making, promote healthy behaviors, and promote peer information exchange and social support. Quality, research methodology, and accessibility must all be increased to ensure that CHI achieves its potential to improve the nation's health.


CONCLUSIONS
With the advent of the internet, the profusion of consumer health-related web sites, online support groups, and electronic patient-centered communications present new challenges for clinical practice. Health care providers have important roles in helping their patients as well as the public locate, assess, and interpret health information.
Houston
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TK
Division of General Internal Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 2024 E Monument St, Suite 2-500, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
Ehrenberger
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HE
D003257:Consumer Product Safety; D005544:Forecasting; D006266:Health Education / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D007255:Information Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D020407:Internet / Q000458:organization & administration*; D008490:Medical Informatics / Q000458:organization & administration*; D009862:Online Systems / Q000458:organization & administration; D018802:Patient-Centered Care; D012107:Research Design / Q000592:standards; D012648:Self Care; D012657:Self-Help Groups / Q000458:organization & administration; D013673:Technology Assessment, Biomedical