PatientsLikeMe and Online Patient Support Communities in Dermatology

JMIR Dermatol. 2024 Jun 26:7:e50453. doi: 10.2196/50453.

Abstract

Online patient-oriented platforms such as PatientsLikeMe (PLM) offer a venue for individuals with various diagnoses to share experiences and build community, though they may not be representative of the larger patient population. This potentially limits generalizability and raises concerns about the spread of misinformation, emphasizing the need for informed use and health care provider engagement.

Keywords: PLM; PatientsLikeMe; atopic dermatitis; community engagement; demographics; discussion boards; forums; internet; lived experience; misinformation; online support communities; prevalence; representation; social media.

MeSH terms

  • Dermatology* / organization & administration
  • Humans
  • Internet
  • Self-Help Groups / organization & administration
  • Social Support