How might online medical forums affect patient expectations and the role of trust in healthcare provider relationships?

ANSWER: Online medical forums can both inform and mislead patients, leading to altered expectations. High-quality forums may empower patients with knowledge, fostering informed discussions with healthcare providers. Conversely, forums with misinformation can create unrealistic expectations or distrust. Patients may challenge professionals based on what they've read online, potentially straining the patient-provider relationship. Thus, trust can be enhanced or eroded depending on the accuracy of the information and the patient's ability to critically evaluate it. Providers must navigate this by addressing online information proactively.