Online Medical Information and Virtual Medicine Education

Searching for information online for personal health and medical issues has become commonplace. Estimates are more than 1/3 of persons in the U.S. use the internet for information on their symptoms. More than 60% of US adults have searched online for information during the past year according to the Pew Research Center.

The Impact of the "Dr. Google" Phenomenon

There is a wealth of information available online for medical information, healthcare, and wellness. There are advantages of using our medical degree from Google University of Medicine for information and decision processes. However, there are times when it is appropriate to get a second opinion regarding Dr. Google’s advice.

What do you do when Dr. Google isn’t cutting it? Be aware of the possibility of “cyberchondria”. Cyberchondria is freaking out about what Dr. Google suggests. Cyberchondria refers to a person’s anxiety about their health and the medical issue’s the internet search stimulates. This is a situation where information from Dr. Google can be put in context by talking with or seeing a real health care provider.

Addressing Confirmation Bias and Skepticism

Recognize internet search engine algorithms can contribute to confirmation biases. Confirmation bias is the tendency of individuals to seek evidence and information to verify what they what to hear instead of seeking evidence that might disprove what they want to hear. Search engine algorithms create situations where users increasingly are getting information that confirms their prior searches. When seeking Dr. Google’s advice seek information opposite of what you wish to hear.

When information found online raises your level of skepticism, remember that healthy skepticism means thinking like a scientist. A human healthcare provider can help resolve skepticism and ambiguity. Take the information with a grain of salt. If you have doubts consult with a real healthcare provider.

Effective Communication with Healthcare Providers

Most healthcare providers are accessible through direct email or thru encrypted secure patient portals. When Dr. Google isn’t cutting it, proceed to healthcare patient portal. As a patient, I have found using an email patient portal to communicate with my healthcare providers highly effective and efficient. Prior to my scheduled appointment, I will write a summary to share with my healthcare provider and include information about my:

• Current signs and symptoms, not my Dr. Google diagnosis
• Current medications
• Current functional limitations
• Expectations or goals
• Questions I wish to discuss

As a healthcare provider, I appreciate when my patient communicates with me via email prior to their scheduled appointment with the above information. This process facilitates the agenda of the meeting is patient-centered.

Academic Opportunities in Virtual Medicine

For those interested in pursuing the field, online medical webinar and medicine courses offer doctor teaching to academic students in the virtual class. You can take your first step to becoming a doctor now through several virtual info sessions and open days.

Virtual Info Session Schedule

• January 21, 2026: 6 Year Undergraduate Entry – Doctor of Medicine (MD) Degree (5:00 pm - 6:30 pm EET)
• January 28, 2026: Graduate Entry – Doctor of Medicine (MD) Degree (5:00 pm - 6:30 pm EET)
• February 18, 2026: Master of Public Health (MPH) (5:00 pm - 6:30 pm EET)
• May 19, 2026: MSc in Family Medicine (MScFM) (5:00 pm - 6:30 pm EEST)

During these interactive sessions, you will have the opportunity to explore how these programmes can empower you to advance your career. Learn more about the Graduate Entry – Doctor of Medicine (MD) Degree(5 Year Programme), discuss questions with Course Directors and our Admissions team live and take a virtual tour of our campus.