Friday, April 8, 2011
What information are you looking for?
Many Americans seek medical advice via the Internet. There are many popular medical and health websites to choose from. There are probably more that will be developed in the years to come, and as technology advances. People from all ages, and cultures actively use the Internet for answers to health related topics. Unfortunatly, some take it upon themselves to diagnose themselves rather than use the information obtained for a reference and see a doctor, as well as share the information with their doctor. I have looked online recently for a health related question that I had. After I typed in the information I was asked if I wanted to get an answer from a doctor whom was online. Well it turned out that they wanted me to pay with my credit card to get the answer. Of course, I didn't. I figured I'd just wait to see my doctor and ask my question then. It made me wonder just how many people really pay for services like this. They do have a sliding fee scale at some places for those who don't have insurance, so to me it's a crazy idea to pay for online advice, plus who's to say if these are really doctors. Another search that caught my attention was that there are online doctors that will write a prescription, and ship it out like the next day or two. Is that even legal? So let me ask those who would like to answer, what website would you trust the most for health related information? And would you diagnose yourself or share your information with your doctor?
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
I think medical websites are great for referencing general concepts and symptoms. However, I would not suggest paying for these services online. There are reduced rate clinics that could provide a more comprehensive evaluation based on your personal situation. An effective diagnosis cannot be reached solely over the internet. I trust PubMed, WebMd, and CDC.gov to name a few. I stay away from sites that aren't considered scholarly.
ReplyDeleteThere are hundreds of medical websites, but I only go to one, WebMD. Sometimes i'll just google the information I'm looking for. Otherwise, I just stick to WebMD.
ReplyDeleteNot! I wouldn't use those sites in a million years.If a person knew anything about how search engines operate you wouldn't trust any diagnose coming from a program created to key word search. The program would only diagnose the words, not you. I think I deserve a little closer attention than that. Besides, the fact that the services are not free, There's not since of familiarity like having a primary care giver. So, to get computer generated advice, to go get treatment seems absurd to me.
ReplyDelete