A fifth of Londoners use web to self-diagnose instead of going to doctor

Record numbers of Londoners are turning to the internet to diagnose themselves because of difficulty getting an appointment with their GP.

Figures released today reveal nearly one in five use Google or other search engines to self-diagnose while nearly a third prefer to listen to advice from a friend or colleague instead of going to the doctor.

Experts say the findings from a poll by health insurer National Friendly highlight a worrying trend.

Katherine Murphy, of The Patients Association, said: "The web can be useful especially on challenging health professionals over access to drugs. But it can't be a replacement for a consultation."

The British Medical Association has warned web diagnosis is "very dangerous". Dr Sam Everington, who is based in Tower Hamlets, said it was "worrying" if patients were only using the web.