[Norwegian use of Internet health services].
BACKGROUND
This study investigates the assumption that the Norwegian population's use of Internet health services has an impact on health related attitudes and behaviour.


METHODS
In 2000 and 2001, 1,006 and 1,018 subjects were randomly selected from the general population in Norway and interviewed over the telephone. In 2001, a web-based questionnaire was presented to 600 of a 2,800 member Internet panel who reported having used the Internet for health purposes; 79% responded.


RESULTS
The proportion of Norwegians who use the Internet for health purposes increased from 19% in 2000 to 31% in 2001. The proportion of those wishing to use e-mail in interaction with their doctor increased from 30% to 45%. Based on information from the Internet, 33% of users in 2001 have asked their doctor specific questions; 11% have suggested a diagnosis, 21% have altered their diet and/or lifestyle; 10% have started with health products or programmes without consulting their doctor. 13% have experienced anxiety, while 48% have experienced relief.


CONCLUSIONS
Norwegians' use of the Internet appears to supplement rather than replace ordinary health services. Health personnel will need to respond to Internet-generated expectations and behaviour.
Andreassen
Hege
H
Nasjonalt senter for telemedisin Universitetssykehuset Nord-Norge Postboks 35 9038 Tromsø. hege.andreassen@telemed.no
Sandaune
Anne-Grete
AG
Gammon
Deede
D
Hjortdahl
Per
P
D000328:Adult; D001294:Attitude to Health; D003195:Computer Communication Networks; D019992:Databases as Topic; D005194:Family Practice / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior; D006266:Health Education / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D008297:Male; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D012648:Self Care / Q000379:methods / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014850:Waiting Lists