Women and Newborn Health Library (WNHL): Health Websites

These health websites are a good start when searching for general health information or you don't know where to start.  Look at the Health Topics drop-down menu on the toolbar above for information and links to specific conditions.

Use of this information is not intended to replace consultation with a qualified health professional.  The Women and Newborn Health Library makes no claims as to the accuracy, reliability or currency found on these websites. 

Tips for navigating the Internet for Health Information

The Internet can be a great place to find health information and help you make more informed decisions about your health care - however not all sources are reputable.  There is no requirement for accuracy or quality control of health information published by Internet service providers.

Ask the following questions to help evaluate the quality of information on a medical website.

• Who is responsible for the content?  The 'about us' page should link to a reputable source like a Government body (such as the Health Department), professional organisation (such as the Jean Hailes centre for Women's Health), a not-for-profit organisation (such as Diabetes Australia), an academic institution or a health Professional. 
• Can you see and contact the authors of the site?
• Is the information current? It is important to have an idea of whether the content is updated regularly.  Look at the bottom of the web page or each article for the date last updated.
• Is the website's only purpose to give you information and not sell you something?
• Sites like Wikipedia allow anyone to update the contents and information may be based on personal experiences or incorrect.
• What about chat rooms and blogs?  Sometimes patients who have learned a lot about their condition will want to make it available to others. While this is helpful to read of others experiences - no two people are the same and they may not have the same symptoms or condition as you.

Always look for information from more than one source and consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment advice.

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