Ways public health users interact with online health information: a qualitative study

Abstract Purpose The use of internet for health-related purposes has increased in the past years; however, the overabundance of information led the world to a health “infodemic”. Little is known about the ways public health users seek health information online and how it influences the relationship between patients and healthcare practitioners. We aimed to investigate how public health users seek health information online and how this practice affects health encounters. Methods We conducted a qualitative study in a public secondary level healthcare facility. Thirty participants were interviewed using a semi-structured grid designed upon the definition of digital health literacy. Participants were mostly women with an average age of 50 years old and educational level equal to or lower than high school degree. Traditionally and digitally illiterate participants participated in the study. Data analysis was performed using a reflexive thematic analysis underpinned by critical theory. Results We identified three interrelated themes: (1) failing to be a digitally engaged patient, (2) health information on the internet resonates better with individuals’ literacy, and (3) vulnerability is welcomed on the internet. Themes explored power dynamics that appeared to be mediated by formal knowledge, sociocultural contexts, use of technical language, and the presence of emotional and affective domains. Conclusion Our findings suggest that health information online might facilitate the understanding of technical terms and fill an emotional gap often overlooked by healthcare practitioners. Findings may assist health professionals in developing ways of considering health information online as part of the health encounter.