European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

PERCEPTION OF CEU NON-HEALTH ALLIED STUDENTS ON THE RISKS AND BENEFITS OF INTERNET-BASED MEDICAL ADVISES

Luis Angelo C. Tiongson*, Ansherina B. Leandicho, Clarissa Jane R. Pagtalunan, Coline M. Capispisan, Allianah R. Nietes and Dr. Penuel P. David, RM, RPh, PhD

ABSTRACT

Context: With the increasing activity of people engaging with the internet, various information can be easily obtained and viewed on various websites and social media platforms. These activities have been raised, especially in the pandemic era of COVID-19. Many websites and media platforms have catered medical information available to the general public. On the other hand, this data isn't always accurate and reliable. The literature cites that the information accessed by the public, especially medical information and advise, may give both beneficial effects and harm to the user. Aim: With that, this study determines the perception of the non-health allied students of Centro Escolar University in the City of Malolos, province of Bulacan, Philippines. The previous research had a smaller sample size and was based on respondents' self-evaluation of their self-diagnosis behavior. Methods: The study utilized snowball sampling to obtain the 213 respondents and sent out an online survey questionnaire to gather the data. Results: The respondents are predominantly female and between the ages of 18 and 24. The results revealed that the respondents are well-versed in the benefits of using internet-based medical advice. The respondents are aware of the risks, but they are not aware of all of them. Conclusion: In conclusion, there is more room for education when it comes to tackling the risks. Pharmacists should engage in counseling on this topic to give the necessary knowledge to the patients and promote the right medication therapy.

Keywords: Self-diagnosis, Self-medication, Patient counseling, Internet-based medical advise.