On-line support groups come top in survey
14 Jan 2007
On-line support groups are more highly valued than support from GPs or specialist consultants, a recent report published in America suggests.
The Ferguson report asked 1000 members of the Sapient Health Network (SHN) service for people with chronic and serious illnesses to complete a survey rating on-line support services against those of traditional GP or specialists. Some 191 members responded, giving the thumbs up for on-line support communities, saying they considered them to be the primary source of their medical information. The reasons stated included convenience, cost-effectiveness, emotional support, compassion/empathy, medical referrals, practical coping tips, in-depth information and “most likely to be there for me in the long run.”
This may be a small percentage, but certainly at NAPS, we have found our website forum to be an invaluable source of support and information sharing of all kinds, for sufferers around the world. On December 27 2006 alone, 261 people logged on, looking for support and advice. Unlike traditional helplines and support groups, the forum is always running, seven days a week, 24 hours a day, and women and their friends, relatives and partners can log on wherever they are in the world and find someone to support them and give advice.
As part of our on-going improvements to our website service, and to help increase the safety and security of our users, the forum will be placed in the secure section of our website from the end of January, introducing a membership donation of £20 for those wishing to contribute to conversations. For less than 50 pence a week you will be able to use this incredible service in a secure location. Those not wishing to join will be able to continue to read the conversations but not contribute. If anyone experiences any difficulties at all, please contact Christine.
