Supplement Your Doctor’s Advice with Online Resources

With the vast amount of information available online, it’s no wonder that many people turn to the internet for answers to their health-related questions. The internet can be a valuable tool when used in conjunction with your doctor’s advice. It provides the convenience of 24-hour access, the anonymity to research symptoms deemed embarrassing, the ability to access unprecedented amounts of high-quality information, and ways to connect with people facing similar challenges.

Some health-related websites provide simple, straightforward information from qualified sources, while others allow anonymous users to post medical advice that is not checked by anyone. It is important to remember that online health information can be a valuable tool when used for educational purposes. But it is never a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Finding Reliable Information Online

The Consumer and Patient Health Information Section (CAPHIS) of the Medical Library Association (MLA) released a list of 100 trusted health and medical websites, which you can view by following the link below.

2010 CAPHIS Top 100 List: Health Websites You Can Trust

These websites have been divided into nine categories such as: General Health, Women’s Health, Men’s Health, Senior Health, Drug Information Resources, etc. You can also download a PDF version of the complete list.

Some additional resources available include:

• How’s Your Health? After taking their questionnaire, this site provides you with your risk factors, reading recommendations, and an action form that you can take to your next appointment to help improve the medical care you receive. You can also create a Personal Health Record, which you can save and update as necessary.
• MLA Resources for Health Consumers. This site includes a guide to evaluating health information on the web, deciphering “medspeak” (the specialized language of health professionals), special resources for seniors and more.
• Stanford Health Library. In addition to their extensive listing of scientifically-based medical information, this site provides customized research assistance to the public at no charge. Simply complete an online request form and you will receive a response within three working days.

Researching Symptoms before Your Appointment

It may be helpful to prepare for a doctor’s visit by researching your symptoms online before you go. For example, Mayo Clinic Symptom Checker provides you with a list of possible conditions associated with the symptoms you select. Under “Preparing for your appointment” they provide a list of questions related to your condition that you can print out and take with you to your appointment.

Research a Confirmed Diagnosis

If you have been diagnosed with a medical condition, have a scheduled surgery or test, or have been prescribed a new medication, the internet can be a convenient way to expand your knowledge and become more actively involved in your care. You can go online to find comprehensive information about your diagnosed condition, what to expect during a procedure, or possible side-effects of a new medication. Many sites have quality patient education resources with interactive features, such as videos, symptom checkers, and slideshows – even live webcasts of surgeries (like the archive available at MedlinePlus).

Participate in an Online Support Group

If you or a family member has a confirmed diagnosis, you have the opportunity to connect with people who are dealing with similar health challenges through an online support group. There are support groups and forums focused on specific diseases that allow members to share personal experiences and advice. The Mayo Clinic website has tips for choosing a support group. You can also ask your doctor for a recommendation.

Important

The purpose of this article is to provide general information regarding online health resources. None of the sites or resources mentioned in this article are explicitly or implicitly endorsed by the DGA-Producer Pension and Health Plans. Nor are the resources listed in the article exhaustive of the health resources available online. The DGA-Producer Pension and Health Plans have no association with the listed resources and cannot verify or be accountable for the information on those websites. The information contained on any online health site should never be used in place of consultation with your doctor. Rather, the information should only be used to obtain knowledge that may guide discussions with your health care providers.