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Patients’ attitudes towards online dental information and a web-based virtual reality program for clinical dentistry: A pilot investigation in China
- Source :
-
International Journal of Medical Informatics . Mar2009, Vol. 78 Issue 3, p208-215. 8p. - Publication Year :
- 2009
-
Abstract
- Abstract: Objectives: This research investigated (1) the attitudes of dental patients toward searching online for dental information and (2) patients attitudes and expectations towards a web-based 3D virtual reality program for clinical dentistry. Methods: A questionnaire survey was conducted in six clinics across two cities in China. Dental patients visiting the six clinics were invited to participate in the study. All subjects browsed a webpage containing the 3D virtual reality dental program. The new media was supplemented as a consultive system for patients into the traditional pattern of seeking dental care procedure. Subjects then completed a questionnaire detailing their attitudes toward their experience with the software. The questionnaire responses were then collected and analyzed. Results: 45% of respondents reported having searched information online before receiving dental care. Respondents held different attitudes towards the online dental information, with a majority reporting a reliance on it but with reservations. Over 50% of respondents held positive attitudes to the web-based virtual reality dental information program, while 21% reported negative views toward the new method. Most respondents reported that the web-based virtual reality program was superior to traditional static web pages, but only as a supplementary material. Respondents also indicated that internet speed may likely be a major determinant to their future usage of such a system. Conclusions: These findings indicate that a considerable portion of respondents conduct their own internet searches for related dental information before seeking professional advice on dental care. Most of the respondents reported positive attitudes towards a web-based virtual reality program for clinical dentistry. However, the current speed of internet connections in China is a major area of concern for the future application and uptake of web-based virtual reality dental software. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 13865056
- Volume :
- 78
- Issue :
- 3
- Database :
- Academic Search Index
- Journal :
- International Journal of Medical Informatics
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 36481373
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijmedinf.2008.07.003