Find reliable online health information

In 2008, the number of those in the U.S. going online for health care information was about 150 million (including an estimated 81% of the adult Internet population), up from 54 million reported by Harris Interactive in its first measurement ten years ago. Many reasons that consumers cite for wanting to search for health care information online include opportunities to:

• prepare, in advance, for doctor's office visits as a way to get the most out of limited time with medical professionals
• further research basic information that may have been provided by a health care professional following a visit
• investigate difficult or possibly even embarrassing health care subjects in a comfortable, private space
• remove barriers, such as limited mobility, in becoming a more informed health care consumer
• choose from learning methods based on individual needs or preferences, whether it's reading, watching and listening to videos, using interactive tools, viewing animated drawings or a combination of these or other methods
• control the rate at which new information can be learned and understood
• self-direct changes that may involve diet or other healthy lifestyle considerations
• better manage health care costs and decisions

Frequent users of online health information often include those who have, or have family and friends with, chronic health conditions, or who have been recently diagnosed with a specific medical condition. Online health information often is most useful when discussed with a medical professional.

Join the many who wish to be more involved in their own personal health maintenance and care by putting to good use resources provided within Park Nicollet's Health Advisor. Bookmark Health Advisor. Visit often.