Women's Health Information Survey: Common Health Concerns and Trusted Sources of Health Information Among Different Populations of Female Patients

Abstract

Background: Women are more likely to search for information on behalf of both themselves and others, thus making them a valuable target for health information research. The purpose of this project was to identify and compare the most important medical concerns and sources of health information trusted by women in relationship to demographic differences in two different clinical settings within the same geographic area (Mayo Clinic Department of Family Medicine and Beaches Community Health care—a Sulzbacher Center Clinic).

Methods: A novel survey tool was developed to obtain information regarding the age, race, and socioeconomic demographics of patients as well as the patients' personal significant medical concerns and trusted sources of health information.

Results: Despite the huge development of health care information delivery through online resources, in our study, the majority of patients from both clinics still used and viewed their primary care provider as the most trusted source of health information. The health concerns most reported by both populations included cardiac health, breast and other cancers, and obesity; meanwhile, mental health was significantly more reported by patients from the free clinic.

Conclusions: Education level may be an important factor of the awareness and ultimate treatment and prevention of these prevalent diseases. Furthermore, our study results may help improve patient satisfaction, knowledge, and health outcomes.