Using Internet Interventions to Reduce Health Disparities
Author Information
Author(s): Gunther Eysenbach, Maria Riper, Lee Ritterband, Harvey Sorbi, Marjolijn Vromans, Isy Muñoz, Ricardo F Muñoz
Primary Institution: University of California, San Francisco
Hypothesis
Can automated self-help evidence-based Internet interventions help reduce health disparities worldwide?
Conclusion
Evidence-based Internet interventions can significantly contribute to reducing health disparities by providing accessible health care solutions globally.
Supporting Evidence
- Automated self-help Internet interventions can reach hundreds of thousands of people worldwide.
- These interventions can be used repeatedly without losing their effectiveness.
- Evidence-based Internet interventions can be provided in multiple languages and formats.
Takeaway
This study shows that using the Internet can help people get health care even if they can't see a doctor in person, making it easier for everyone to get help.
Methodology
The study involved randomized controlled trials of automated self-help Internet interventions for smoking cessation and other health issues.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in self-reported outcomes and reliance on Internet access.
Limitations
The study relies on the assumption that Internet access is available to all populations, which may not be the case.
Participant Demographics
Participants included smokers from over 200 countries, with a focus on underserved populations.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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