According to the research, a startling 71 percent of health care consumers say they were given no health information during their last physician visit. Yet 85 percent of those who did found it extremely helpful. Consumers can also get Laurus information during an office visit from participating Laurus physicians. The study shows that of all the ways to obtain health information, getting information from their physician remains consumers' preferred choice. Laurus provides in-depth information on conditions and illnesses, pharmaceuticals, medical tests, treatment advances plus detailed physician and hospital profiles which include their philosophy of care, specialties, hours and even a map and driving directions.
Physician profiles are the most popular are on the Web site to date.
A Wired magazine study supports this trend, showing that 42 percent of consumers are interested in using the Internet to choose a physician. Laurus also provides physicians with access to the latest research, medical journals, reference texts, clinical guidelines and on-line forums. Laurus health information is available now to consumers across the country free of charge through the Laurus Web site or call center. The program was piloted at several VHA member hospitals and hundreds of doctors' offices. With Laurus, we've been able to better equip our patients and the community with the power of information to ultimately improve their health.