Experience with an Internet Information System about Radiotherapy

Abstract

An independent web site with informations about cancer treatment with radiation was created: “www.iradioterapia.com”. Information is based on scientific data and different treatment guidelines. Always in an ethical way, health professionals, students, patients and their relatives, and others, can obtain theoretical information about therapeutic options, management of the disease, up-to-date on treatments worldwide, and on-line responses to several questions. They can also participate in group discussion among themselves. On the web since August 2000, 4000 accesses had already been registered, with many questions answered for patients and group discussions. The main questions are about medical treatment policies, patient care, and prognosis of the disease. There are very few informations available for patients and relatives about radiotherapy. Free access to this kind of information allows improvement of treatment techniques, patient physician relationship, and confidence of the patient during treatment. Internet access permitted more participation of patients and their relatives in their own treatment, allowing higher comfort and tranquility. Patients collaborate in medical appointments, searching for the best technique and treatment options.