¹Department of Radiation Oncology, Kimmel Cancer Center, Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA

Correspondence: A Dicker, Department of Radiation Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, 111 South 11th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107-5097, USA. E-mail: adam.dicker@mail.tju.edu

Received 9 September 2004; Revised 31 January 2005; Accepted 28 February 2005; Published online 26 April 2005.

Abstract

Electronic mail (e-mail) is a powerful tool that can greatly enhance communication and has numerous potential applications within the medical profession. Physician–patient e-mail communication volume is increasing, but little research has addressed patient interests and concerns about this now commonplace technology. The goals of this study were to review the available literature regarding physician–patient e-mail practices, evaluate patient interest, assess patient perspectives about how e-mail communication might facilitate medical treatment and advice, and determine areas of patient concern regarding e-mail communication with their physicians. To this end, a population of cancer patients was sent a written survey designed to assess their access to e-mail and attitudes about physician–patient e-mail communication. We found that patients favored e-mail for increased convenience, efficiency, and timeliness about general health problems, while it was not favored for urgent matters.