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Background The frequency of Internet use for self-directed medical care in different patient populations is increasing. We evaluated Internet use by patients presenting for bariatric surgery. Study design Surveys were completed by 136 patients (109 women, 22 men) presenting to a private academic clinic for bariatric surgery. Data collected included age, gender, education level, household income, and pattern of Internet use. Comparisons were made with a group of 135 patients who visited a colorectal surgery clinic in the same institution. Results Bariatric patients who used the Internet were more likely than colorectal patients to inform themselves about their medical problem (76% versus 49%, p Conclusions Bariatric patients are especially likely to use the Internet to gain information about their medical condition, possibly reflecting their limited mobility. This represents an educational opportunity for the surgical community. |
