The natural history of the use of healthcare information by women with breast cancer: a conceptual model.

The overall goal of our research agenda is to contribute to improved quality of healthcare by identifying factors that foster or inhibit the use of healthcare information by patients to make informed healthcare decisions. We propose to study the natural history of the use of healthcare information by women with breast cancer to support decisions about health care. To do so in this paper we propose a conceptual model developed based on an extensive literature review and critique that describes patients' health information use over the disease course. It will guide our further investigation of the complex relationships among patients' personal circumstances, the progress of their medical treatment, and their satisfaction and empowerment as informed decision-makers. The model will help policy makers and health professionals identify the best means to provide patients with useful information, and help all stakeholders in health care acquire information needed to improve healthcare quality.