Can NIH offer any advice when searching for health information on the Internet?
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has no official role in policing the quality of health information found on the Internet. Nevertheless, we can offer some advice. • Web information should not be used as an alternative to seeking professional medical help. Don’t use the information you find to make a self-diagnosis. • Don’t use information found on the Web for self-treatment, especially in cases of serious illness. • Use the information you find to become an informed patient. Discuss what you have learned with your medical care providers. • When reviewing information you have uncovered, look for dates—how old is the information? • Be a critical consumer, ask questions: Has this document been updated? Is there a point-of-contact for the information? Are there any references? Has the information been peer reviewed (critically examined by credentialed professionals)? • Remember that the distinction between a paid ad and public service announcements may not be obvious on the Web. • F
