Search

Aim: Health-related information is easily accessible on the internet, and a high proportion of the Norwegian population use the internet for health-related queries. This paper reports from a study of how people search, evaluate and act upon this information. E-Health literacy is used as theoretical framework. Material and method: The Norwegian data is drawn from an international comparative study with a mixed method design; two surveys and qualitative interviews with 16 participants. The material is thematically analysed. Results: E-Health literacy refers to the ability to seek, appraise and apply health information from electronic sources. The participants had high competence in information seeking, but low education corresponded with low appraisal skills. The application of internet based health information did not correspond with education level. Internet searches served different purposes: uncertainty, assisting others, information needs, or sensitive topics. The participants crosschecked the information against authoritative sources; and discussed it with family, friends or health professionals. Conclusion: The participants had high competence in information seeking, but differed in capacity to appraise their finds. Physiotherapists should acknowledge patients’ internet competencies and utilise their desire to learn as a resource for treatment and empowerment.