Abstract
This paper discusses the use of the Internet as a tool for health research in a group of patients living with HIV / Aids. The literature shows the internet as one of the most accessed media for searching for health information in the present day, including the group interviewed. We conducted a qualitative study involving 11 semi-structured interviews. All patients interviewed are HIV positives and in treatment for HIV/Aids. They are members of a support group at the same hospital they are outpatients. In opposition to theoretical data, among those interviewed, many prefer the use of other medias. Some of the interviewed in this study does not use the Internet as a mean to research health subjects. The analysis of the interviews revealed that knowledge acquired through the internet or other media, does not affect the respect of the medical professional. On the contrary, it seems to value the physician-patient relationship and the trust in medical knowledge. Despite using several means of communication, they consider that the main source of information still is the one offered by the medical professional or another qualified health professional. Moreover, that empowerment, gained through the knowledge acquired on the internet, contributed to the dialogue with the physician during the appointment. Thus, for the interviewees, the physician-patient relationship has not been compromised; on the contrary, strengthened by the trust that the medical professional shows in conducting the clinical encounter.
Keywords:
HIV /Aids; internet; empowerment; patient-physician relationship