Check the date
Look to see when the website was created or last updated. Health information should be up to date to make sure it is relevant and accurate. Even if the information has not changed, it should be regularly reviewed.
Check the author
Identify the author to determine if they have the necessary background, experience, or training to accurately discuss the topic. See How to Determine an Author’s Credibility for more information.
Look for the evidence: Is it true? Don’t trust everything you read!
Health information should be based on facts rather than opinion, rumours, or personal stories. Authors and websites should clearly list their sources, so that you can check the information for yourself.
Understand the purpose
Read the “About Us” page to understand its purpose and who runs it; are they credible and unbiased? Be cautious of websites selling a product: this information may already be biased, as the goal is to make profit rather than present clear facts. See “Fake News”, Lies and Propaganda: How to Sort Fact From Fiction.
Be critical of the details
Be skeptical of websites that look out-dated, contain broken links, or have spelling and grammar errors. Patient information should be written in plain language, making it easy to follow.
Protect your privacy
Be careful when sharing your personal information. Look for a privacy policy to find out how and why your information is being used, stored, or shared.
There is a lot of health information available on the internet. The Online Health Information Aid is a friendly website that provides tips and resources on searching, evaluating, and using online health information.
