Selecting Health Web Sites and Apps

Basic criteria for selecting health websites and apps

First, you want make sure that your computer is protected. You can download anti-viral software from home, or if you want the help of a computer specialist, you can go to a local store such as Best Buy or an Apple Store, where a person can assist you. Just call ahead to see if you need an appointment and bring your laptop. If you have a desktop computer, maybe ask if a relative to come to you. Some common anti-viral software programs are Norton or AVG.

Before you take something you find on the internet as truth, you want to make sure that you can trust the source. A word for this is credibility. Read other people's reviews on the site or application for your smart phone. What have they said about it? Is the site or app trying to sell you something? If so, the information could be biased if not altogether false. Are the authors or people contributing to the site experts in the field that they are speaking to? Is the site certified or accredited?

Then, is the information accurate and up-to-date? Look for the last time that the website was edited or dates on posted articles. Health and medical information is changing all the time. Has this site kept up with the times? Is the information similar to what you can find on other sites or is it making some dramatic or weird claims?

Finally, is the site or app easy to use? If not, find another. There is so much out there-find one that makes your life simpler. None of this is meant to sound scary or overwhelming. I just want to make sure that when it comes to your health you are getting good, dependable information.

A Couple Recommended Web Sites for Health Information

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/
• Mayo Clinic: http://www.mayoclinic.org/

...And a Couple Recommended Apps 

•  Find a doctor/hospital in an emergency with iTriage: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id304696939?mt=8
•  Track your own blood glucose with Glucose Companion https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id456218638?mt=8

Security and Confidentiality

First, make sure, as talked about above, that the site is a safe one. If you are doubtful, ask your doctor's office or go to a hospital library. Even at a public library, someone can help you for free to decide if a site or app is safe. Most websites don't require your personal information in exchange for health-related information or to explore the website. Be hesitant to provide personal information and never feel like you have to offer more than is required just because there is a box to list your dog's name, your favorite food and the hospital you were born in...