Abstract
The Internet is a source of valuable medical information, however the Web has the potential to increase anxiety when employed as a diagnostic procedure. This study seeks to identify motivation behind health related search online. A new distinct cohort has emerged, those who experience anxiety when conducting health related search for others; “cyberchondria by proxy” (CbP). The mixed design research methodology consists of focus groups (N=20) and case histories (N=2). Results indicate that health-related search behaviour is impacted by technology, gains are evident, additionally there is a significant positive correlation between those who search for self, and for others, that is cyberchondria, and CbP. This finding is relevant for healthcare professionals, particularly regarding patient care and management.