Finding good information online
February 1, 2013Dear Editor:
More and more Americans are turning to the Internet to explore topics related to their health concerns. And many, if not most, of those searching for information are women.
Studies show that women are the primary healthcare decision makers in their households, and not surprisingly, women make up a majority of the health seekers who turn to the more 17,000 health-related websites available online. Women search for information for both their families and themselves, and often look for more information after visiting a physician. And many women wonder if the information they’ve found is valid and reliable. If you’re looking for trustworthy healthcare information, I would encourage you to use these tips from The National Women’s Resource Center to help you find the best information available:
- Choose website addresses with .gov, .org and .edu at the end. These sites are usually sponsored by state and federal agencies, non-profit organizations, or colleges and universities.
- Don’t trust it? Don’t read it? Visit the websites of nationally or regionally recognized organizations for the most up-to-date information on the health topics you’re involved in.
- Trust your instincts. If what you’re reading sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.
I hope this information helps. Another resource for reliable health information is your local physician or healthcare provider. On February 23, Valley West is hosting an annual women’s health event, This One’s For the Girls, where you’ll also be able to pick up great health information, participate in screenings, and have a little fun too. You can find out more about the event at valleyforthegirls.org.
Maureen Dela Cruz, MD
Family Practice
KishHealth Physician Group, Sandwich
