Attitudes and awareness of web-based self-care resources in the military: a preliminary survey study

Telemed J E Health. 2011 Sep;17(7):580-3. doi: 10.1089/tmj.2011.0006. Epub 2011 Jun 30.

Abstract

Web-based self-care resources have a number of potential benefits for military service members (SMs) and their families such as convenience, anonymity, and immediate 24/7 access to useful information. There is limited data available, however, regarding SM and military healthcare provider use of online self-care resources. Our goal with this study was to conduct a preliminary survey assessment of self-care Web site awareness, general attitudes about use, and usage behaviors of Web-based self-care resources among SMs and military healthcare providers. Results show that the majority of SMs and providers use the Internet often, use Internet self-care resources, and are willing to use additional Web-based resources and capabilities. SMs and providers also indicated a preference for Web-based self-care resources as adjunct tools to face-to-face/in-person care. Data from this preliminary study are useful for informing additional research and best practices for integrating Web-based self-care for the military community.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Attitude*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Internet
  • Male
  • Military Personnel* / psychology
  • Self Care / methods*
  • Telemedicine / statistics & numerical data*
  • United States
  • Young Adult