How to find the most trustworthy health information web sites

It is important that you trust the information you find online.
This checklist is intended to help you decide about the quality of a health information Web site.

Look at these factors when you search for any kind of information on the Internet.

• Is the resource credible?
• Is the author's name (or the name of the organization responsible for the document) clearly stated?
• If the author is identified, is he or she a professional or accredited authority on the subject? If not, does the author state his/her perspective on the subject (for example, by saying "I'm a cancer survivor," or "I've used chiropractors for 10 years")?
• If an organization is responsible for the information, is it a reputable organization recognized as an authority on the subject?
• If medical information is given by a non-professional, is this clearly said?
• What kinds of evidence are provided to endorse a specific treatment or service? (Keep in mind that scientific studies and research have a different credibility than first-hand experience.)
• Does the site provide contact information about the author (for example, full name, address, phone number, e-mail address)?

• Is the content suitable? Does the content discuss the issue(s) you're interested in? Is there enough detail or does the information seem superficial? Does the site have original content or does it only link to other sites?

• Is the information relevant to you? Does it match what you are looking for? Is the information presented within a Canadian context?

• Is the resource timely? Is the information reviewed and/or updated often enough given the content? (For example, if it deals with the latest in safety features on child car seats, has it been changed lately?) Is the date of the last update clearly marked on each item or screen? If information is only valid for a short time, is this fact clearly labelled?

• Is there clear and adequate disclosure? Is the author's interest and/or mandate in developing and sharing this information clear (for example, a non-profit organization trying to promote exercise and active living or a fitness product company trying to sell you exercise equipment)? Is there potential for bias or conflict of interest (for example, a company telling you that only their product or service is valuable)? Are both (or all) sides of the issue presented? If not, does the resource state that it presents only one side of an issue? (For example, an anti-abortion site should make its politics clear and not present itself as a family planning site.) Are commercial links and/or sponsorships clearly stated? Are these sponsorships separate from the health information content? If the site collects or requests information about you, do they tell you exactly why they want this information? Are their privacy guidelines stated? If you have to register to use the site, is the reason clear and your privacy ensured?

• Are there clear caution statements? Does the site offer a clear statement that health information should not be taken as health advice or a substitute for visiting a health professional? If there are fees associated with use of the resources on the site, are they clearly explained?

• Is the site user-friendly? Is the information presented in a clear manner? Can you contact the author/administrator by e-mail if you have difficulties using the site?