Topic 6 Digital Health literacy
Health related information from credible online sources using the Internet
How to use the Internet for health-related issues:
- As an information source for symptoms, treatment, health screenings frequency, medications side effects
- As a link to access health care providers
- As a way to create and maintain a social network that can support you with health problems
Be careful which websites or mobile applications you use. There is a lot of information provided on the Internet, which may not be reliable
Try to use credible research from universities, research, government institutions, or other trusted scientific organizations (WHO, ECDC, CDC, National public health organizations)
Always ask your doctor’s point of view. The Internet can not replace your doctor, it should be supplementary
Be aware of “infodemic”.
- This term is mainly about public health emergencies e.g. COVID-19
- There is too much information including false or misleading information in digital and physical environments during a disease outbreak
- Capitalize on credible and scientific resources, when using the internet and social media