An Internet primer for emergency physicians: Part I

The growth of the popularity of the Internet is nothing short of phenomenal. Increasingly, valuable medical information is becoming available on line for physicians and health consumers alike. Physicians can clearly benefit personally and professionally by obtaining access to the Internet. The purpose of this article is to introduce the Internet to physicians who have limited experience with this new medium. It discusses the concept of the Internet, the necessary computer components and modem for on line connection, and the various types of Internet Service Providers. A glossary is also provided to explain some of the most common terminology used in the Internet culture.