Abstract

The new information flows and the collapse of the journalistic monopoly in the intermediation with the public, have created opportunities and dysfunctions in biomedical information. To the problems of hype and commercialization, those related to the lack of filters and the diffusion of bad science have been added. This article discusses the challenges posed by these problems and the perspectives in academic research, communication and journalism. 

Abstract

The perception of specialized journalists about the transformations of public communication of health and biomedicine in Spain in the last two decades was analysed. Twenty semi-structured interviews were performed. In the analysis, the metaphorical concept of "ecosystem" has been used. According to the interviewees, the main "environmental" changes have been technological (highlighting the expansion and diversity of online information and the impact of social networks). There is a multiplication and diversification of the "species" of information sources. Within this, specialized sources (researchers and health professionals) and civil associations (patients and consumers) have increased their visibility, but "opportunistic species" have also emerged, such as the promoters of fake-news and pseudotherapies. Despite recognizing that their work "environment" has worsened and perceiving the dependence on clickbait and network positioning as a threat, health journalists value their profession with satisfaction.