Contexts and Outcomes of Proxy Online Health Information Seeking: Mixed Studies Review With Framework Synthesis

Abstract

Background High-quality online health information (OHI) can reduce unnecessary visits to health professionals and improve health. One of the ways that people use OHI is to support others with health conditions through proxy OHI seeking. Members of a person’s social circle may help them overcome information-seeking barriers and illness challenges. There are several models on proxy information seeking. Yet, we know little about the use and outcomes of OHI on behalf of someone else. Objective The objectives of this paper are to explore and revise a framework on the context and outcomes of proxy OHI seeking Methods We conducted a mixed studies literature review integrating qualitative and quantitative evidence with thematic analysis of the findings of 28 studies, followed by framework synthesis incorporating the derived themes. Results We explored 4 main themes: (1) characteristics of proxy seekers, (2) context of proxy OHI seeking, (3) use of OHI to provide social support, and (4) outcomes of proxy OHI seeking. Our conceptual framework incorporates these themes and builds on previous work. Conclusions By better understanding how people use information together, information providers can adapt the information to meet all users’ needs.

How People Use Web-Based Parenting Information to Support Others in Their Social Circle: Qualitative Descriptive Study

“…Our study allowed us to explore different concepts within the Outcomes of Proxy OHI Seeking model in the context of entourage members of parents of young children [ 25 ]. The context, OHI-seeking behavior, OHI use, and outcomes described in this study provide tangible examples to illustrate the different outcomes.…”

“…The model guiding this work was developed by following a mixed studies literature review on proxy OHI-seeking behavior and was published elsewhere [ 25 ]. The findings from the thematic analysis of 28 included studies were used to revise the existing conceptual framework [ 5 ].…”

“…These outcomes are generally positive; for example, information can help people make a health behavior change like quitting smoking or allow them to feel more confident and able to discuss the information with their health care providers and request different management options. There are also negative outcomes such as increased anxiety for both the proxy seeker and the individual, for example, with conflicting information or with conflicting preferences for information in general [ 25 ].…”

An examination of cyberchondria’s relationship with trait anxiety and psychological well-being in women of reproductive age: A cross-sectional study

“…[ 2 ] According to data from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries, the proportion of online health-related searches more than doubled between 2008 and 2017. [ 3 ]…”

“…[2] According to data from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries, the proportion of online health-related searches more than doubled between 2008 and 2017. [3] In Turkiye, approximately 38% of the population is female in the age group of 18 to 49. Women's health is most at risk physically, mentally, and socially in this age group, as they are in their reproductive years.…”