Asking the right questions, to get the right care.
The web has lots of health information that can quickly get
very confusing. Some information is good and some is not.
Sometimes information is very difficult and time-consuming
to find. Health Care Answers lists web sites that provide
unbiased information, sites that are subject to medical
review, and funding sources are clearly indicated.
Just because it is on the web does not mean it is
accurate. In looking for health information, check the
following:
How is the site funded?
In other words, if you are at a site funded by a drug
company, they will be very positive about their drugs and
probably not tell you about any other drugs. Funding sources
for web sites should be listed in information about the
company.
Is the information current?
Look for dates, sites should indicate the date of the
article or when the information was updated. This assures
you that you have current information.
What is the source of the information?
Information can come from many sources. Check if the
information has been reviewed by a health care professional
for accuracy.
Does the information match other information you have reviewed?
ALWAYS get information from more than one source. There may
be differing opinions on the best treatment for a particular
condition. Check information from a government web site and
a medical school. Finding different information can provide
good questions to ask the primary care provider.
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