The quality of health-related information available through Internet searches varies, according to a
For the study, researchers queried Google's search engine with more than 2,000 health-related terms in the subject areas of physical illness, mental ailments, diet, fitness and nutrition. The resulting websites were then evaluated based on whether they had been referenced or certified by Medline Plus or The Health on the Net Foundation, two groups that assess healthcare websites.
The study found 65 percent of searches on diagnostic and treatment information for medical conditions resulted in certified or referenced websites, while only 35 percent of searches for preventative and wellness information resulted in certified or referenced websites.
The study shows providers "may feel more confident patients can find good health information on the Internet," said Christopher Harle, PhD, co-author of the study, in the news release. "So, rather than recommending patients avoid Internet searches for health information, providers may consider helping patients develop good strategies for recognizing high-quality information over questionable information."
More Articles on Google:
4 Healthcare-Related Apps for Google Glass
Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital Uses Google Glass to Offer Patients Zoo "Visits"
Sanford Health's e-Visits Aim to Deliver Convenient, Efficient Care