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Using the Internet to Find Quality Health Information
What should you look for when evaluating the quality of health information on Web sites?
Consider the source - Use recognized authorities. Know who is responsible for the content.
Focus on quality - All Web sites are not created equal. Does the site have an editorial board? Is the information reviewed before it is posted?
Be a cyberskeptic - Quackery abounds on the Web. Does the site make health claims that seem too good to be true? Does the information use deliberately obscure, "scientific" sounding language? Does it promise quick, dramatic, miraculous results? Is this the only site making these claims?
Look for the evidence - Rely on medical research, not opinion. Does the site identify the author? Does it rely on testimonials?
Check for currency - Look for the latest information. Is the information current?
Beware of bias - What is the purpose? Who is providing the funding? Who pays for the site?
Protect your privacy - Health information should be confidential. Does the site have a privacy policy and tell you what information they collect?
Consult with your health professional - Patient/provider partnerships lead to the best medical decisions.
Adapted from the MedlinePlus Guide to Healthy Websurfing. Visit the MedlinePlus.gov page on evaluating health information: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/evaluatinghealthinformation.html
Some web sites to start with:
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