The Internet as a research and dissemination resource

The rapid growth of the Internet and the advantages of the medium over traditional communication formats in terms of flexibility, speed and reach make if an obvious route for research dissemination. Given the emphasis on evidence-based decision-making as a way of improving the allocation of scarce resources to improve health, and given the focus on dissemination therein the potential of the web to get digestible information to the right people at the right time is even more apparent While the Internet is no panacea and issues around equity of public access are still to be resolved its possibilities as a resource for professionals should not be underestimated and its longer term impact an the way we carry out and communicate research are likely to be far reaching. However, before its full-potential can be realised, problems relating to underdeveloped skills and lack of support for users need to be addressed, as do issues around the Internet's credibility as a publishing route far professional researchers. Similarly, new types of expertise and creativity need to be nurtured in those charged with developing the unique features of the medium. This will ensure that health researchers, practitioners and policy makers are at the forefront rather than bringing up the rear of the increasing number of professionals finding the Internet a key fool in their work.