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Evaluating Internet Information

February 01, 2001

by Mark B. Levin, M.D. The Pediatric Group, P.A., Princeton

 

This is the twentyeighth article in a series written for Princeton Online.

With the advent of the Internet came a torrent of information available to all who choose to view it. In our zeal to discover this universe of cyber-data we often overlook how the information actually gets there. Anyone can post information on the Internet. Anyone can design and publish a web page. There are no restrictions and no regulatory standards. How then can we as consumers discern what is dependable information, whether it be related to health, finance, law, education, religion or any other important field?

We need to maintain a healthy skepticism here (as elsewhere) regarding what we read as we must differentiate between what is helpful and what is inaccurate or potentially harmful. Often, the goal of those posting information on the Internet is financial gain. We all know from life experiences that is not the best of motivational factors when it comes to trustworthy performance. Below, you will find several suggestions from Dr. George D. Lundberg (former editor of the Journal of the American Medical Association) and William M. Silberg (a health journalist) in determining whether Internet health information is reliable.

1. Check for sponsors and advertisers of the web site your are surfing. Consider whether the information is in your best interest or whether it is designed to sell you something.
2. Determine who wrote what you are reading. The site should contain the name of a real person.
3. Determine where that person works (a university, a web business, a product manufacturer). Can you easily find this information on the web site?
4. Determine if the information was created for the web site. If not, is there a clear indication of where the information was generated?
5. Determine who owns the site and who pays for it. The source of the money and ownership should be clearly identified.
6. Determine when the information was posted and whether it has been updated and when.

If you have questions regarding the validity of information, check with a trusted professional (personal health professional, accountant, lawyer, educator, clergy, etc.). Happy surfing!

 

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Dr. Mark B. Levin 

Dr. Levin was a member of the staff at The Pediatric Group starting in 1977. He was an attending Pediatrician at the Medical Center at Princeton, Chairman, Department of Pediatrics, Medical Center at Princeton, 1984 to 1986, 1989 to 1992, and past President, Medical and Dental Staff, Medical Center at Princeton, 1987 to 1988. Dr. Levin served on numerous Departmental and hospital committees. He published original articles both while at Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse and at The Pediatric Group.

Moderated by Helen Rose.

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