Is blogging a new form of communication in palliative health care? A qualitative research study.

AIM

To illuminate experiences of living with life-threatening diseases as described in blogs and the experience of blogging about these matters.

METHODS

A secondary analysis of 21 blogs was performed.

RESULTS

It was difficult for bloggers to accept what they perceived to be the unacceptable aspects of having an life-threatening disease. They searched for hope and acceptance, and tried to manage their life. They felt strengthened by supportive encounters with health professionals, relatives, friends, and from their blogging. However, they also felt that they were set aside in relation to both health professionals and relatives.

CONCLUSION

These patients appreciated being able to express their feelings and received support from their readers. Even if patient blogs can be used in health care, research and education, there is a lack of research studies that have examined the benefits of using blogging for any of these purposes.