Netnographic Analysis in Healthcare- Related Research and Education
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Abstract
Netnography is often described as part of ‘techno culture’ and stands as an adaptation of ethnographic research for digital environments. It provides unique opportunities for medical professionals and educators to understand these digital interactions, particularly in disease management and overall well-being. This commentary highlights online health sharing and its challenges, outlines key steps in netnographic analysis, and delineates future research directions. In conclusion, netnography offers a promising avenue for health research, particularly in medical education, as individuals’ growing freedom to discuss health-related issues on social media provides valuable opportunities for educators and healthcare professionals to gain insights into societal perspectives on emerging health topics. Moreover, netnography findings may serve as a powerful tool for improving health literacy and shaping evidence-based healthcare communication in an increasingly digital world.
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