Information Resources
By Evelyn Cunico, MA, MS/LIS
Health Science Communications
Posted February 28, 2024
Evaluating Internet Health Information
When you are evaluating health information on the Internet, you may be guided by starting with the five Ws used in journalism: Who, What, Where, When, and Why.
For example:
WHO runs the website?
In general, you will find reliable health information on websites from the following types of organizations:
- Federal Government sources, such as the National Institutes of Health
- University medical schools and research libraries
- Large professional or nonprofit organizations. For example, the American College of Cardiology is a professional association of cardiovascular specialists, and the American Heart Association is a non-profit organization that funds cardiovascular medical research and educates consumers.
WHAT is the purpose of the website?
If the purpose of the website is to inform the public, without trying to sell products or services, then the website has met one measure of reliability.
WHERE does the information come from? The content pages should have references or links to the sources of the information.
WHEN was the information developed? Content pages should include dates when the information was written, reviewed, or updated. Look for dates at the top or at the bottom of the content.
WHY does the information exist?
Look for a privacy policy section to see how your personal information will be used. Do not share information about yourself unless you are comfortable with any risks involved.
For more information, please see the following Selected Information Resources.
Disclaimer: Information in this blog should not replace the medical advice of your doctor. You should not use this information to diagnose or to treat any disease or other health condition without first consulting with your medical doctor or other healthcare provider.
Selected Information Resources
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). Be More Engaged in Your Health Care
Summary Note: Tips to use before, during, and after your medical appointment. Includes section called My Questions for this Visit, where you think about and then list questions that you might ask your doctor. Your questions might include whether a website that you have visited is reliable.
(Accessed 2024 February 27)
National Institutes of Health. National Library of Medicine. MedlinePlus. Evaluating Health Information.
Summary Note: How to evaluate health information on the Internet, on social media, in the news, and in books. Includes a series of questions to determine whether health information is reliable. Includes links to journal articles, patient handouts, tutorials, and videos. Ask your health provider before using information to make decisions that may affect your health.
(Accessed 2024 February 24)
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Rumor Control
Summary Note: The growing spread of rumors, misinformation, and disinformation about science, medicine, and the FDA, is putting patients and consumers at risk. Learn and share FDA facts to help stop the spread of misinformation. Includes video of Ten FDA facts about what FDA does and does not approve.
(Accessed 2024 February 27)
Category: Evaluating Internet Health Information
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