Internet by Proxy

Abstract

This study investigated utilization of computer-based telemedicine in three rural Missouri counties. Participating health care agencies were given computers and access to an Internet-based workstation that provided e-mail and World Wide Web (WWW) services. Ten rural practices from three Missouri counties were profiled. Utilization data for e-mail messages sent and received, along with the number of WWW pages accessed, were collected through a proxy server. Results showed that most physicians received more messages than they sent and utilized the WWW more than they did e-mail. Moreover, physicians connected to a tertiary care center and who currently use extenders in their practice are more likely to use Internet technology, even if it is through a proxy user such as a nurse practitioner or office staff.