Before blasting off to this world of discount drugs and beauty products, however, experts say it's important to examine both the benefits and dangers of e-commerce's increasing impact on healthcare. There are downsides, however. With email and Internet use becoming so second nature, there have been reports of patients suffering from heart attacks and miscarriages who have gone online for information instead of dialing 911 or going to an emergency room. Despite some of the dangers, users are flocking to health-related sites. PlanetRx, for example, has captivated over one million Web surfers with live chats and message boards on everything from allergies to ulcers.
Technology can allow patients to communicate more efficiently with their healthcare providers.
Speaking at the forum, Crawford said the hospital receives approximately 6,000 emails a year through its Web site. Online requests for general information and specific medical questions were split evenly in 1998. However, in 1999, the interest seemed to shift, with about 80 percent of people emailing the hospital seeking second opinions and appointment requests. Crawford said people trying to get key medical information online, such as second opinions, are taking a risk. Wired Waiting Rooms Speakers at the forum said a visit to the doctor in the year 2010 will be very different than it is today.