Study: Interactive health Web sites improve clinical outcomes

Study: Interactive health Web sites improve clinical outcomes

 

Consumers who used interactive health Web sites to help manage chronic illness had better health outcomes than nonusers, according to a study from the University College of London (UCL). Researchers reviewed what they called interactive health communication applications (IHCA): computer-based information sources combined with at least one additional service, such as an online support group, reports MedicalNewsToday.com. The researchers found that IHCA users were better informed and socially supported. The programs also appeared to affect positive behavior changes that help manage the disease, clinical outcomes, and patients' belief that they can take steps toward better health.

 

The UCL review contradicts the study's original findings, which were revised after errors were discovered, according to the MedicalNewsToday.com report. 

 

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=32290