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The Internet doctor and medical ethics Ethical implications of the introduction of the Internet into medical encounters

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Abstract

In this article, consultation via the Internet and the use of the Internet as a source of medical information is examined from an ethical point of view. It is argued that important ethical aspects of the clinical interaction, such as dialogue and trust will be difficult to realise in an Internet-consultation. Further, it is doubtful whether an Internet doctor will accept responsibility. However, medical information via the Internet can be a valuable resource for patients wanting to know more about their disease and, thus, it is a means to enhancing their autonomy.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Centre for Applied Ethics, Linköping University, S-581 83, Linköping, Sweden

    Göran Collste

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  1. Göran Collste
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Collste, G. The Internet doctor and medical ethics Ethical implications of the introduction of the Internet into medical encounters . Med Health Care Philos 5, 121–125 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1016083021422

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1016083021422

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