274 Assessing the Quality of Online Patient Information on Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Using the Modified Ensuring Quality Information for Patients (EQIP) Tool

Abstract Aim The internet is a primary resource for patients seeking information on medical conditions and treatments. High-quality information is associated with better clinical outcomes. This pilot study evaluates the quality of online information on laparoscopic cholecystectomy using the validated modified Ensuring Quality Information for Patients (EQIP) tool. Method We conducted a Google search using eight terms, including “laparoscopic cholecystectomy” and “gallbladder removal.” The first 100 results for each term were reviewed, yielding 800 websites. After removing duplicates, non-English sites, and websites targeting medical professionals or children, 171 websites met inclusion criteria. For this pilot study, 100 websites were sequentially selected for analysis. Website quality was assessed using the modified EQIP tool, with scores categorised into content, structure, and identification domains. Results The median modified EQIP score was 60.3%. Median scores for the content, identification, and structure domains were 50%, 50%, and 90%, respectively. Only 3 (3%) websites stated how patients were involved in their creation, and 53 (53%) failed to include alert signs for complications post-procedure. Conclusions The information we evaluated can reasonably be considered representative of what is most readily accessible to patients. There is an urgent need to improve the quality of online patient information regarding laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The current resources lack critical information on risks and post-operative warning signs, limiting patients’ ability to make informed healthcare decisions. Efforts should focus on enhancing the accessibility and comprehensiveness of online materials.