Search engines give us easy access to information with only a few clicks. At any given moment, we can receive the answers to questions that we have on any subject. This has a multitude of benefits, but it can also lead to problems.
When it comes to our health, we are always in search of the latest information. When we come across a miracle drug or health advancement, we are eager to believe what they say is true.
However, sometimes the information we get isn’t completely reliable. There are ways to differentiate legitimate sources of health information. Here are eight methods for evaluating online health resources.
- Who Runs the Website?
The person or organization in charge of the website can tell you a lot about the reliability of the information. Reputable organizations tend to make sure their name is available on every single page of their website. If you are having trouble finding out who runs the website, you should avoid it.
- What’s the Source of the Information?
Many online health resources use other websites as sources. The source of information should be indicated somewhere on the webpage. You’ll also want to ensure the source used is reliable. Developing information literacy skills can help you differentiate between reliable and unreliable sources.
- Content
The information provided on the site should be accurate and contain an appropriate disclaimer. When sites make claims about supplements or health plans, clinical evidence should be clearly noted. The outline of the study should read in a way that an ordinary person can understand.
- Objectivity
Medical information should come from an objective point of view. Avoid websites that only show one point of view. Figuring out the source of the information is important when it comes to this.
A pharmaceutical company that touts the benefits of its new drug has a stake in showcasing its benefits. Get a complete picture by looking at sources that present the pros and cons.
- Purpose
The website’s owner and the source of its funding determine the site’s purpose. You should check the website’s About Us section to learn more about their goals. If the site is trying to sell you something, their viewpoint most likely won’t be wholly objective.
- Peer-Reviewed Health Information
Medical info vetted by other health officials is far more reliable than empty claims. Medical officials take the information presented and try to substantiate it by reproducing the results. Don’t trust sites that give vague details about who verified their information.
The names of the doctors and organizations should be easy to find.
- Design
The design of a website does not affect the quality of information, but it can make it easier to find. It should present in a logical way that is easy to understand. It should also give users the ability to perform a search for easy access, like lyf.fit.
- Information Currency
The website should offer the latest available information on the subject they discuss. A date on the page should indicate when their article was published. If new information has been presented since its publication, many sites include a notation of when it was updated.
Your Health Hub
Health information isn’t hard to find on the internet, but you need to make sure you’re getting the most accurate information possible. Check to see who runs the site and what their purpose is. If they are selling something, they usually won’t provide objective information.
Their findings should also be verified by other doctors and scientists to substantiate their claims.
If you found this article helpful, we invite you to check out more of our site. We provide health information to equip you with the knowledge to help you lead a full life. Check out some of our resources to learn more.
