Determining information sources for health related issues utilised by community members

Reason for information seeking by consumers and community members has been the subject of previous research to ascertain any unique issues about the personal attributes of the information seeker, the search environment and context or particular issues associated with the goods or services being researched. Several researchers have identified ways to study how information on health related topics is communicated to the community. While research is limited on the sources, search approaches and conditions associated with obtaining reliable information on health issues and topics, there is extensive literature on the important aspects of communication processes that impact on the unique, and at times complex, environment within which health consumer research occurs. This research project has enabled a review of the interpersonal and noninterpersonal communication modes to understand a range of issues that impact on the community member as the receiver of messages on health issues and topics. A qualitative and quantitative research approach has been utilised in original research to examine a number of issues associated with where community members in Australia turn to find information on health related topics. The study involves the comparison of a number of communication and information gathering approaches and expectations with a picture of information source experiences. The study highlights a range of considerations for campaign, individual communication, environment and background communication planning for those involved in engaging with the community to impart health care orientated messages.