Evaluation of online health information
What a wonderful tool we have in the internet. So much information at our fingertips. The web has changed our everyday life. Understanding the validity of health information from the internet is not difficult if you know the main components of a strong online article. Look for these four components when researching health topics: Credibility, Content, Disclosures and Links.
Is the source Credible?
Information in a journal or on the Web should have an identifiable source or an author. In considering the credibility of the source, ask yourself whether the particular source you are reading is likely to be fair, objective and lacking in hidden motives. Do the authors have credentials, are there financial connections or any conflict of interest? Has the article been reviewed by the authors peers?
The website you are on may give indication to the validity of the information you read in terms of potential biases. Web addresses that end in the following may assist you:
.edu - is published by an organization that is associated with an educational institution such as a university.
.gov - the web page belongs to a governmental organization.
.org - belongs to a nonprofit.
.com- belongs to a for-profit company
Do you have accurate Content?
Look for clinical or scientific evidence which is clearly presented and easy to interpret. All sources should be disclosed. It is important to note that testimonials are not considered evidence. Solid evidence-based information generally originates from universities, medical schools, and large non-profit organizations. If the site is funded by advertisements or a business pays for the site, the health information may be biased.
Are there Disclosures?
Disclosures refer to privacy, the use of your information as you enter a website and how the information will be used. For example, if you go on the site
and scroll to the bottom of the page there is a link you can click that tells CVS they are not allowed to sell your information. Otherwise every product you read about, purchase can be sold to third party companies. The information can come to your in box or present as advertisements supporting products of interest.
Does your article have Links?
Links in a health-related topic should be included to make it possible for verification of content of the site. The links should lead users to other reliable sources for further information.
Sources Cited:
https://www.ucsfhealth.org/education/evaluating-health-information