While the internet can be of benefit to patients as it provides easily-accessible information, it is not a replacement for a face-to-face consultation with a medical professional, according to the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP).

Professor Steve Field, chairman of the RCGP, stated in recent days that online resources should be seen as a means of supporting doctors and their patients rather than an effective standalone service.

He added: "The internet can help in communicating test results to patients, answering patient queries, sending health information and improving access for non-urgent routine matters."

Professor Field warned consumers not to use email as a way of purchasing drugs online or securing a diagnosis.

He concluded that the internet will work most effectively in a situation where the doctor and patient already know each other.

Meanwhile, research by internet analyst comScore suggests that 85 per cent of women using the internet have used it to research health issues.