The document discusses how the Internet can be used to create informed patients by providing them access to healthcare information. It notes that while the Internet cannot cure illnesses or prevent medical errors, it serves as a fast, inexpensive, and pervasive tool for finding information on risks, treatment options, medical references, side effects, and healthcare recommendations. This information can help patients evaluate their risks, make decisions, manage diseases, and support their health. However, there are still collaboration and localization issues to be improved, such as getting more physicians and medical organizations online and encouraging patient communities.