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Using the Internet to Enhance Physician-Patient Communication

Dr. Biermann is Associate Professor, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, and Director, Musculoskeletal Oncology, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI. Dr. Golladay is Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI. Mr. Peterson is General Counsel, Office of General Counsel, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, Rosemont, IL.

None of the following authors or the departments with which they are affiliated has received anything of value from or owns stock in a commercial company or institution related directly or indirectly to the subject of this article: Dr. Biermann and Mr. Peterson. Dr. Golladay or the department with which he is affiliated has received nonincome support (such as equipment or services), commercially derived honoraria, or other non-research–related funding (such as paid travel) from Pfizer. Dr. Golladay or the department with which he is affiliated serves as a consultant to or is an employee of Zimmer.

Reprint requests: Dr. Biermann, University of Michigan Medical Center, 7304 CCGC/Box 0946, 1500 E Medical Center Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48109.

The rise in Internet use by patients with musculoskeletal problems has put orthopaedic surgeons under increased pressure to provide Web-based resources. Patients are researching musculoskeletal conditions online, and many want to communicate electronically with their physicians. Online medical information may be a useful adjunct to traditional physician-patient interaction because it is readily available, is wide in scope, and can provide the patient with basic knowledge on a given topic. A clinical encounter may then be efficiently spent refining information and answering specific questions. Orthopaedic surgeons should be aware of the advantages of using Internet resources as part of their practice as well as the potential legal and confidentiality pitfalls in electronic communication. Some patient concerns may be easily satisfied and communication enhanced through the use of e-mail. Physicians planning to incorporate electronic communication with their patients must be prepared to manage unsolicited e-mail, maintain patient confidentiality, and adopt practices that maximize the use of online resources to enhance patient education.

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