A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association indicates that fewer adults use the Internet to find health information than previously thought. Researchers also suggest that the Internet is a useful tool in disseminating healthcare information, and more widespread use could improve the ability of patients to interact effectively with healthcare providers.
Previous research maintain that between 50% and 80% of all adults with access to the Internet use it to find information about health care. Baker and colleagues now dispute these numbers with their own research that shows about 40% of online adults are seeking health information. Women, people who report their health to be poor, and those with higher education levels are more likely to actively search for health information online.
Researchers remain optimistic that there are significant benefits for patients who utilize the Internet for accurate health care information. The Internet is a relatively new information source, and already 40% of users are employing it to gain access to health information. However, with so much information available on the Internet, how can consumers find reputable sources? Use these tips to find reliable health information on the Internet:
- Look for the author. The author should be clearly identified and have current contact information available. Contact information for the Webmaster or IT team should also be available to report any technical problems.
- Use several sources. To validate information from one source, compare it to others. When several sources report similar information on a topic, it is more likely to be accurate and up-to-date.
- Be suspicious of the “only source.” Web sites that claim to be the only resource with all the facts on a subject, or those who seek to discredit other sources may be unreliable.
- Question online diagnosticians. Reputable physicians do not diagnose and treat patients online without an actual physical exam. Question and answer columns from health care providers are popular and provide access to good information, but responsible providers will caution they they are not a substitute for a physical exam with a physician.
- Keep up to date. Look for web sites that are regularly updated and maintained. The medical field is constantly changing with new research, and information becomes out of date quickly.
- Beware of bias. While some for-profit companies and individuals provide reliable health information, others may bias their content towards the product or service they sell.
- Get to the source. Credible web sites will provide links or references to their source of information and plainly label any content that is reprinted from another site.
- Read the privacy policy. If a site asks for personal health information, find out why it’s needed, what it will be used for, and if it will be shared with anyone else. If you decide to provide personal information, be sure that the web site is encrypted.
- Opinion or fact? Sharing personal experience is helpful to others considering a particular treatment, but opinions or testimonials should be clearly labeled so as not to be confused with facts.
- Use your best judgment. Trust your common sense and Internet savvy to help you sort the accurate from the erroneous. The cautionary saying, “If something seems too good to be true, it probably is” is still good advice, even on the Internet.
