Interactive medicine: Resources in dermatology and dermatologic surgery

The Internet has proved to be a useful resource in various fields of medici ne. Within the field of Dermatology, Internet sites appeal to specialists i n dermatology, non-specialist physicians, medical students, and the lay pub lic. In the past 2 years, United States physicians' regular Internet use has inc reased 300%, according to an ongoing study conducted by the Santa Clara-bas ed Healtheon Corporation.(1) The phenomenon of increased Internet usage Is explainable. Patients have access to the Internet and often consult net sou rces before they see their physician; therefore, it is very important that physicians are likewise "connected" to enhance patient communication. Careful study of approximately 300 Internet sites has yielded a reader-frie ndly presentation of only the sites that should be most useful to practitio ners, medical students, and the lay public. The objective is to promote pub lic health through doctor-patient communication and through the use of valu able interactive medical resources.