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Abstract

Undoubtedly, in the current medical scenario, patients often look for medical information about their specific disease conditions on a variety of Web-based platforms. However, we believe the timing of this search for information varies from patient to patient and also depends on their specific presentation. For example, a patient with a first episode of severe flank pain caused by renal calculi is unlikely to perform an Internet search about the condition during an acute episode. Instead, the patient would present to the emergency department for pain management; thus, the primary medical contact would often be established first, and only after this would the patient consider searching for pertinent information about the disease process. We believe the responsibility for allaying any fears or concerns of patients lies with the primary medical contact, and that if patients are properly counseled or even directed toward trustworthy, easily accessible information resources, patient satisfaction would be enhanced. Editorial CommentUrologyVol. 77Issue 3PreviewThe use of the Internet by physicians and healthcare providers, as well as by medical students, is revolutionizing medical education. Indeed, most medical students today rarely use textbooks or even print journals to study and research medical issues. YouTube, a frequently consulted Web site, is the largest video Web site used internationally. Medical students often use this site to view surgical procedures before participating in the operating room at their medical centers. Similarly, practicing urologists might review a case in video to find new “tricks of the trade.” Full-Text PDF