Communicate Diagnostic Uncertainty in Online Surrogate-Seeking Affects Patient Attitudes

This study investigates the influence of surrogate-seeking behavior (proxy consultation vs. information search) and communication of diagnostic uncertainty among doctors (implicit vs. explicit) on patient attitudes in online health interactions. Results indicate that when surrogate seekers engage in past consultation information search, patients exhibit a more positive attitude when doctors employ implicit expression rather than explicit expression. This positive attitude is characterized by enhanced trust in the doctor, a favorable impression, increased satisfaction with online consultations, and a tendency towards recommendation behavior. These findings offer insights into enhancing doctor-patient communication methods in online health interactions.