Medical Information on the Internet
If you use the internet for medical information it is important that you are careful to make sure that the advice you are receiving is correct. Some 'health' sites seem just to promote products that may not help you or may possibly have adverse effects. If in doubt always feel free to talk to your GP. The following tips may be helpful:
- Compare different websites to reach a balanced view.
- Be aware that anyone can publish anything on the Internet.
- Look to see that the authors and their qualifications are listed.
- Look at what other reliable information the site refers to.
- Check that the site is kept up to date.
- Look for advertising which may influence the information on the site.
- Avoid online consultations or diagnoses - you may not be talking to a health professional.
- Check to see if your details are kept private and confidential.
- Sites from outside the UK may mention treatments that are not available here.
Useful Links
Previously we had a list of links here to other websites to find useful health related information. However there is a better list of links on the NHS Choices website. Please remember that we are not responsible for the content of of these sites and we would always advise you to consult with your GP for review of any health issue.