Survey: GP costs sending people to internet for medical diagnosis

Almost half of Ireland's population turn to the internet when looking to diagnose a medical ailment, according to a new survey by Quinn Healthcare.

The survey said 46% of people consult the internet because of the cost of attending their GP.

Women have the highest take up with more than 60%, aged up to 44, going online for a diagnosis.

More than 55% of younger males said they would consult the internet rather than their doctor if they were suffering from an embarrassing medical problem.