Internet use among orthopaedic trauma patients

Introduction: In Australia, approximately 83% of households have internet access which is increasing with 4G technologies and the National Broadband Network. Further, health behavior change interventions delivered online are becoming increasingly popular as they have a relative low cost per user and can be available anywhere any time. Despite this, access to and frequency of internet use among orthopedic trauma patients is not well known. Methods: A cross sectional survey was conducted at two New South Wales level one trauma facilities with all orthopedic trauma patients. Across a 15-month study period, eligible patients were approached while in hospital and invited to complete an online health behavior survey. Results: Data collection will be finalized by July 2016. Interim results from 641 surveys completed found that 54% of patients accessed the internet daily, and 64% accessed the internet using their own computer. Daily internet usage was found to be higher among males (66%) than females (33%). Interest in using an online program was split, with 51%indicating they would use the internet to help improve their health. Males were more likely to be interested in using the internet to improve their health (59%) as opposed to females (41%). Information from the full data sample will be discussed in detail. Conclusions: Understanding internet usage among the orthopedic trauma population is a precursor to the development of appropriate internet-based healthcare interventions. Internet programs may be better targeted at younger males.