Learning about Atrial Fibrillation using Social Media: A Qualitative Inquiry

Health information is one of the major topics searched on-line. Social media is increasingly used by patients for health education, empowerment and support. There is a lack of systematic data on what kind of information is being sought by patients via social medial channels. By analyzing information exchange in an on-line support group we can better understand what information is not provided reliably to patients in a clinical setting. The aim of this study was to analyze a content of messages exchanged between participants in an online support group for people with atrial fibrillation. Using Grounded Theory, we conducted a content analysis of 626 messages, which were grouped into seven categories. We described each category and provided examples of users citations belonging to each category. In addition, proportion of initial posts and responses to them was analyzed depending on message category. Social media facilitated health education on major topics related to atrial fibrillation. Practical implications of qualitative analysis of messages posted on an online support group are discussed.