special subjects
Overview of Medical Decision Making
Information sources for people
Although many people rely solely on their primary care practitioners for information, it is often helpful for people to obtain additional information about a recommended test or treatment before making a decision (see Researching a Disorder ). Information can be obtained from Pamphlets, brochures, and other materials doctors provide Publications, such as books, newsletters, and magazines, designed to explain medical information to consumers Credible online health resources These resources may generate additional questions for people to discuss with their primary care practitioners (see Making the Most of a Health Care Visit ). The quality of medical information available on the Internet can vary greatly. The quality of on-line medical information can vary greatly. Forums in which people describe their experiences with illnesses and provide suggestions can sometimes contain information that is inaccurate or even harmful. Other on-line resources may describe conspiracy theories or solicit money with promises of providing miracle cures that, in reality, have no benefit. When researching an illness or symptom, a person should seek information from reputable websites, such as those from major medical societies (for example, the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association) or medical institutions. The following three reputable sources are particularly helpful: The Medical Library Association (MLA)has guidelines to help evaluate the credibility of on-line health information, including a list of websites the MLA deems particularly useful. The University of California at San Franciscohas published a free guide to help consumers evaluate the accuracy of on-line medical information they encounter and red flags that indicate that the information might be untrustworthy. The Manuals: STANDS criteriaprovides an easy-to-remember method for evaluating the credibility of online health information. A doctor can also help a person determine whether information found on the internet is accurate. 