In this viewpoint, we introduce the concept of the “information space” to map out the modern patient’s health-information journey, which is increasingly crowded by algorithms, wellness influencers, and AI chatbots. We explore how this digital noise often dilutes the influence of health-care providers and complicates the trust they have traditionally shared with patients. To adapt, we suggest clinicians start asking about patients’ digital information sources during consultations, updating the standard ‘ideas, concerns, and expectations’ framework to explicitly include an inquiry into their information space. We argue that health systems must proactively engage online and foster “information-space literacy” to remain relevant and trusted guides.
Winters M, Wilhelm E, Pick J, Nordenstedt H, Gyberg V, Purnat TD. Navigating information space: the role of health-care providers in the health-information journey of patients. Lancet Prim Care. 2025;1:100040.