Consumer Health Information

"Better Information. Better Health." -WebMD

"Trusted Health Information for You." -MedlinePlus

Popular health information websites (such as the ones noted above) have consumers logging on to acquire health information. Yet, research shows that many of today's consumers need assistance searching for information as well as understanding and applying it. Lack of technological expertise, low levels of health literacy, and an inability to distinguish relevant facts are just some of the documented challenges.

As you work through this Discussion, keep in mind that health literacy does not merely imply access to information, but also the capacity to process that information to make informed decisions. In this Discussion, be sure to conceptualize nursing's roles and responsibilities in assisting patients with web-based information.

References:

WebMD. (2011).

MedlinePlus. (2011).

To prepare:

With the information from the Learning Resources in mind (see below), consider the amount and types of health information available to consumers online.

Reflect on the patients you have encountered in your practice, and consider their health literacy and use of online information.

Evaluate strategies you could use to educate and assist your patients to appropriately use health information found on the web.

Write a minimum of 550 words in APA format with at least 3 references from the list of Required Readings below.

Include the level one headings as numbered (1 & 2) below:

Post a cohesive response that addresses the following:

1) Synthesize your previous experiences with consumer health literacy in your practice setting.

2) Formulate strategies that you could use to assist patients in interpreting and applying online health information going forward.

Include strategies for those patients that overuse medical websites or regularly misinterpret medical information found online.