Patterns of Online Health Searching 2002–2010: Implications for Social Capital, Health Disparities and the De-Professionalization of Medical Knowledge

Abstract

Purpose

Since 2000, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of individuals using the Internet, including for health purposes. Internet usage has increased from 46% of adults in 2000 to 79% in 2010. The purpose of this chapter is to examine changes in one type of Internet usage: online health searching. We examine the impact of traditional digital inequality factors on online health searching, and whether these patterns have changed over time.

Methodology

Using data from five surveys ranging from 2002 to 2010 (n = 5,967 for all five surveys combined), we examine changing patterns of online health searching over the past decade.

Findings

Effects vary by inequality factor and time period examined. Despite the diffusion of the Internet, most of these gaps persist, and even strengthen, over time. Gender, age, and education gaps persist over time and appear to be increasing. An exception to this is the importance of broadband connection.

Research limitations

Since these data were collected, the use of mobile devices to access the Internet has increased. Research is needed on types of access and devices used for online health activities.

Implications

Larger scale inequalities play important roles in online health searching. Providing access and skills in evaluating online health information is needed for older and less educated groups. The results of this study have implications for the de-professionalization of medical knowledge.

Originality

This is the first study to examine digital inequality factors in online health information seeking over the breadth of this time period.

Citation

Hale, T.M., Goldner, M., Stern, M., Drentea, P. and Cotten, S.R. (2014), "Patterns of Online Health Searching 2002–2010: Implications for Social Capital, Health Disparities and the De-Professionalization of Medical Knowledge", Technology, Communication, Disparities and Government Options in Health and Health Care Services (Research in the Sociology of Health Care, Vol. 32), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 35-60. https://doi.org/10.1108/S0275-495920140000032016