What is the Profile of Individuals Joining the KNEEguru Online Health Community? A Cross-Sectional Mixed-Methods Study

摘要: Background: The use of the Internet for seekers health-related information provides convenience and accessibility to diverse sources (of variable quality) many medical conditions. There is a suggestion that patients may find empowerment by engaging with health care strategies communities. profile consumers online on knee pain has not been explored. Objective: Our objective was identify characteristics motivations information-seekers accessing community, KNEEguru (KG). study designed obtain respondents’ sociodemographic profile, together their main reasons joining such information-seeking behavior, extent problems, general usage. Methods: We undertook an questionnaire survey, offered users KG website from June July 2012. A mix open closed questions used facilitate inductive enquiry. Quantitative responses were analyzed using univariate analysis; qualitative thematic analysis completed conceptual model developed. Results: One-hundred fifty-two respondents took part (11.56% response rate, 152/1315), mean age 40.1 years. Of this cohort, 61.2% female, 68.4% in domestic partnerships, 57.2% employed, 75.0% had higher education qualifications, 80.3% white/Caucasian ethnicity. Females associated order get emotional support other (OR 2.11, 95% CI 1.04 - 4.27, P =.04). Respondents’ self-perception reported quality life 10.86, 3.85 30.43, <.001). Facebook share experiences 2.34, 5.56, =.03). Post-surgery compare symptoms 7.31, 2.06 39.82, Three key themes induced: condition, emotion support. Respondents expressed distress frustration at uncertainty prognosis around various conditions, some preferring initially observe rather than engage. Conversely, strong desire inform community members stated reciprocation ideas experiences. conceptualized as filter takes individual’s condition basis support; facilitated validation outcome engagement. Conclusions: This study, line wider literature, suggests knee-specific are typically middle-aged, white/Caucasian, married, have attained level education. These demonstrate pragmatic approach altruistic means validation. finding emphasizes promoting efficient appropriate care, demonstrates benefits viable complement clinical [J Med Res 2016;18(4):e84]