Forumclínic: the virtual community for chronic patients

Joan Gené Badia
Immaculada Grau
Encarna Sánchez
Miquel Bernardo

Abstract

The popularization of the Internet facilitates its use in the area of healthcare. It spreads health information between professionals and patients and connects these groups of people, creating virtual communities. These allow the exchange of information, lend support and promote personal autonomy. In light of the huge volume of information available, the entities rigorously controlling the contents of healthcare websites take on real importance. They verify that the authors comply with the code of ethics to which they are committed. In this article we will present the experiences of the web and Forumclinic DVDs using the example of Medicine 2.0. This interactive program for patients is designed to complement the clinical care of consultations while promoting self-care in those suffering from chronic illnesses. It offers detailed information and discussion forums for chronic patients, moderated by professionals.

Recommended Citation

Gené Badia, Joan; Grau, Immaculada; Sánchez, Encarna; and Bernardo, Miquel (2009) "Forumclínic: the virtual community for chronic patients," Journal of Health Innovation and Integrated Care: Vol. 1: Iss. 1, Article 1.
Available at: http://pub.bsalut.net/jhiic/vol1/iss1/1