The Pew Internet & American Life Project released a report that found most internet users start at a search engine when researching health and medical advice online.

"Search engines are the first stop for two-thirds of internet users with a health question and it turns out the search is often on behalf of someone else. These days, internet users bring the gift of information to a bedside, along with flowers and best wishes," says PEW Associate Director Susannah Fox.

The report also found that 50 percent surveyed rarely or never check the source and date of the online health information.

A recent court decision and shifts in consumer behavior have increased the importance of online in the pharmaceutical marketing mix.

Note: Later this week iMedia Contributor Bill Allman will be covering the Pew report. Check his author page for the latest.  At his page, you can also subscribe to an RSS feed of his work.