Training Video
Evaluating Health Information
MedlinePlus Evaluating Internet Health Information: Checklist
1. Provider
- Who is in charge of the Web site?
- Why are they providing the site?
- Can you contact them?
2. Funding
- Where does the money to support the site come from?
- Does the site have advertisements? Are they labeled?
Quality
- Where does the information on the site come from?
- How is the content selected?
- Do experts review the information that goes on the site?
- Does the site avoid unbelievable or emotional claims?
- Is it up-to-date?
Privacy
- Does the site ask for your personal information?
- Do they tell you how it will be used?
- Are you comfortable with how it will be used?
MedlinePlus
- MedlinePlus
Offers information on health topics, human genetics, medical tests, medications, dietary supplements, and healthy recipes. MedlinePlus is a service of the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the world's largest medical library, and a part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
MedlinePlus offers information in 57 languages. The entire site is available in Spanish.
- MedlinePlus in Espanol
All MedlinePlus content in Spanish
Suggested Web Sites - General
- Centers for Disease ControlHealth topics, travelers' health, emergency preparedness, COVID-19
- familydoctor.orgAmerican Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). Content is reviewed by physicians. Includes advertising.
- healthline.comCommercial site for health and wellness. Offers online forums. Includes advertising.
- MedlinePlusOffers information on health topics, human genetics, medical tests, medications, dietary supplements, and healthy recipes. MedlinePlus is a service of the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the world's largest medical library, and a part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
- National Instituties of HealthWellness toolkits, health topics, and health infographics
- Patient Care and Health Information from Mayo ClinicCovers symptoms, tests, and medications
Complementary Medicine
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH)Covers complementary health topics, herbs, and safety information
- Herbs and Supplements at MedlinePlusCovers dosage, effectiveness, and interactions
Medical Terminology
While using plain language is best, there are times when medical terminology is needed or a plain language version is not available. The resources below can help.
Plain Language
Health education works best with clear, concise language. These sites offer guidance on how to speak and write for your audience.
- PlainLanguage.gov
Includes plain language guidelines. - Everyday Words for Public Health CommunicationSearchable thesaurus for common public health terms.
Older Adults
- National Institutes on AgingHealth topics and information for caregivers
- Illinois Senior Health Insurance ProgramFree insurance counseling for Medicare beneficiaries
- National Council on AgingHealth, wellness, and insurance information
