DOCTORS should not dismiss or feel threatened by patients who self-diagnose on the internet before attending appointments, a medical defence organisation has said.

The Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland (MDDUS) issued the advice after a recent survey revealed that three-quarters of GPs had noticed a marked increase in the number of patients 'self-diagnosing' from the internet over the last year.

One in five reported an increase in patients presenting at the surgery with data generated from health apps and smart devices.

MDDUS medical adviser Dr Greg Dollman said: "Some doctors may feel anxious, intimidated or even threatened by web-wise patients arriving at their practice armed with a dossier of medical information.

"It can be disconcerting to have a patient showing you information from their health app or turning up with print out of their symptoms, complete with their own diagnosis.

"While internet information can be inaccurate or misleading, patients should be encouraged to take an interest in and be responsible for their own health and, by working together with the doctor, they can gain a better understanding of any condition or symptoms they have.

"Doctors should listen to what every patient has to say and this includes carefully considering information presented to them by the patient. Working in partnership with the patient involves sharing decision making where possible and respecting their views.

"It is unlikely that doctors will have every diagnosis at their fingertips and they should welcome a patient's considered and subjective review of their own symptoms and circumstances as both an occasion to build on the doctor-patient partnership as well as a helpful opportunity for continuing their own professional development.

"As with all medical consultations, a doctor should acknowledge the information provided by a colleague or patient, using this as a starting point for their own attentive and personalised review."