What patients are reading about noninvasive prenatal testing: an evaluation of Internet content and implications for patient-centered care.

OBJECTIVE: Patients' use of the Internet as a source of health information is increasing. The objective of this study was to describe and evaluate Internet-based information about noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT), an important new genetic test currently available to high-risk women in early pregnancy.
METHODS: Websites were sampled using leading search engines to mirror Internet-based search patterns of individuals seeking information about NIPT. Content analysis was conducted to assess website reading level, quality, and content.
RESULTS: Basic information about NIPT use as a screening test was accurately described. Overall, sampled websites lacked balance and comprehensive information about NIPT and the complexity of decision making involved in electing for its use. All websites were written at reading levels higher than currently recommended levels for public health information.
CONCLUSION: While online resources should be used with reservation, they can be an important tool to support effective communication and patient-centered care. Online information can help both health care providers and pregnant patients who face a growing number of fetal genetic testing options.