Health literacy
How to evaluate online medical information
Practical criteria for checking authorship, references, review dates, and scope.
2026-09-105 min read
Clinical Editorial Team
Pharmacy and women’s health review
Start with editorial identity
Look for the author or review team, relevant expertise, and last review date. Their absence makes a source harder to assess.
Inspect the evidence
Good content separates studies, guidance, and anecdotes, communicates uncertainty, and avoids guaranteed outcomes.
Look for clear limits
A source should explain when digital information is insufficient, when examination is needed, and what constitutes an emergency.
Use content for dialogue
Collect questions for a qualified practitioner. Do not use search results to confirm a diagnosis or change prescribed care.