The Impact of Online Information and Disinformation on Clinical Practice and Biomedical Decision-Making
Amilcar Ismael Barreto
ABSTRACT
Background: The widespread use of digital platforms has transformed access to biomedical and health-related information. While online information can improve knowledge dissemination and patient engagement, misinformation and disinformation represent growing challenges for clinical practice, biomedical communication, and public health.
Objective: This study aims to analyze the impact of online information and disinformation on clinical practice and biomedical decision-making, particularly focusing on patient behavior, doctor–patient communication, and trust in biomedical science.
Methods: This study uses a qualitative analytical approach combined with a narrative literature review. Scientific articles, public health reports, and academic publications related to digital health information, misinformation, disinformation, and biomedical communication were reviewed. A thematic analysis approach was used to identify key themes regarding the impact of online information on healthcare practice.
Results: The analysis identified five main themes: increased access to biomedical information, impact on patient behavior and expectations, impact on clinical practice, trust in biomedical science and institutions, and digital health literacy. Results suggest that online information can both improve patient engagement and create challenges when misinformation influences patient beliefs and treatment decisions.
Conclusion: Online information and disinformation significantly influence clinical practice and biomedical communication. Improving digital health literacy and scientific communication strategies is essential to reduce the negative impact of misinformation and disinformation in healthcare and biomedical sciences.
