Appropriation of social media for knowledge sharing by patients with chronic illness

Social media technologies are increasingly utilized by patients, leading to development of online social groups where patients share experiences and offer support to their peers on these platforms. Yet, there is limited research investigating actual use of: social media platforms by patients; issues faced in using such platforms and how appropriation of these platforms impact patient outcomes. In this study, we propose a conceptual model that encapsulates Social Support Theory and Model of Technology Appropriation to investigate the role of social media and support networks in the health care domain, especially for patients suffering from chronic illnesses. We propose that Social Support Theory and the Model of Technology Appropriation could explain the determining factors both the enablers and barriers that drive appropriation and knowledge sharing behaviours of patients on social media platforms.