The influence of online health information on health decisions: A systematic review

Objectives: This systematic review assessed the influence of online health information (OHI) search behaviour on health and medical decisions. Methods: Eligible studies were identified by searching electronic databases PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL in February 2020 for studies reporting OHI search behaviour and its influence on health decisions. Information was extracted pertaining to either consumers’ (self-reported) perceptions of the influence of OHI on decision-making or the association between online search behaviour and health decision-making. Results: A total of 3995 articles were screened, with 48 included in the final analysis. The reviewed studies indicated that OHI assisted in making subsequent health related decisions such as asking questions during a consultation, increased professional visits, improved adherence to the advice of a physician, being more compliant with taking medication, and improved self-care. Conclusion: Consumers largely used OHI to support information provided by their physicians. The strength of the patient-provider relationship was considered important in moderating the potential negative outcomes of OHI. Practice implications: Health care systems have a unique opportunity to direct OHI search behaviours towards empowering consumers to engage as an informed, active and joint decision-maker in their own health care.