Self-managed care: Internet is key to paradigm shift

Abstract This article discusses the need for a partner in the managed care system that meets the health information needs of the consumer that physicians and hospitals do not provide. It introduces Health World Online (http://www.healthy.net), a Web-based integrated consumer health resource where end users can find accessible health information. The Internet plays a key role by allowing users to make the kinds of personal choices that will help them achieve real health—which is at the heart of the transition to self-managed care.