The professional body for GPs says Dr Google is actually doing more good, than harm.

It comes as research from the Southern Cross Health Society shows more people are using online research to self-diagnose, before seeing a doctor.

Royal College of GPs president Dr Tim Malloy told Kate Hawkesby it's a good thing if people are taking an interest in their own healthcare.

"There are times where the information they have received is completely inappropriate but for the most part it means they are well informed and may actually add value to the consultation."

LISTEN TO THE FULL INTERVIEW WITH KATE HAWKESBY ABOVE