Are individuals more accepting of the internet than mobile phone apps being used in clinical practice?

Background: New technology such as the internet and mobile phone applications ("apps") are increasingly being used in clinical practice. However, little is known in regards to individual's attitudes towards medical professionals using the internet and apps in the context of their own medical care. The aim of the present study was to examine and compare individual's attitudes towards the use of medically related internet sites and apps in clinical practice. Method: Participants completed an on-line survey which contained questions regarding their own use of mobile phones and the internet, their use of healthcare facilities, and their attitudes towards medical professionals using the internet and apps during consultations. Attitudes were assessed by asking participants to rate 11 statements on a 5 point scale.