Quality Health Information on the Web: A Tool KitTips for Finding Accurate Health Information
on the Web

What is quality health information? Information that is current, scientifically-based and supported by peer-reviewed studies.

Ways to Find Quality Information on the Web

Consider the source

• Only use sources that you recognize
• Potential sources include the government, non-profit institutions, professional organizations, a health system, a commercial organization, or an individual

.gov = Government	.org = Organization
.edu = Education	.com = Company
Note that MedlinePlus is produced by the government.

• Beware of site bias – identify the site’s purpose and funding
• Advertisements should be clearly labeled as “Advertisement” or “From our Sponsor”

Focus on quality information

• The author should be clearly identifiable with provided credentials or contact information
• The information presented should be reviewed by an editorial board that includes medical experts this should be stated in the “About Us” section of the webpage

Be skeptical

• Anything that sounds too good to be true probably is
• It is recommended to check more than one site – get a second opinion!
• Protect your privacy – site should have a clearly stated privacy policy
• Notice what types of questions you answer before you can view site content – personal information may be sold or shared

Look for the evidence

• Avoid opinions and testimonials
• Check for medical research support

Make sure the information is current

• Documents should be dated
• Remember that medical information is always evolving
• Watch out for broken links – they may reflect a poorly-maintained site

Remember to consult with your doctor

• Patient-provider partnerships lead to the best medical decisions

 

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MedlinePlus [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); [updated 2005 Aug 12; cited 2005 August 11]. Available from: http://medlineplus.gov/.

American Dietetic Association. Position of the American Dietetic Association: Food and Nutrition Misinformation. Journal of the American Dietetic Association. 2006;106:601-607.