On August 31, 2022, the New Jersey State Library presented 8 Great Websites for Health. Thanks to all who attended!
A Pew Research Center study from 2012 found that 72% of internet users have looked for health information online. Although this is an older study, it is still likely true that the internet is used by many of us when seeking health information.
The CRAAP Test
We first discussed the importance of evaluating health websites using a helpful device known as the CRAAP Test.
- C = Currency – When was the site last updated?
- R = Relevance – Is the site right for your needs?
- A = Authority – Who is the author/publisher of the site? What does the URL indicate?
- A = Accuracy – Does the information seem biased? Can it be verified?
- P = Purpose – Does the site state its objective?
The Great 8
We reviewed these 8 great online sources:
- Reference Solutions – U.S. Healthcare (previously Reference USA). This is a NJ statewide database available to New Jersey residents at www.jerseyclicks.org. NJ State employees and Thomas Edison State University students and staff also have access from NJ State Library A-Z Databases. Use the U.S. Healthcare option to find doctors or dentists based on specific criteria such as geographic location, primary specialty and board certification.
- New Jersey Health Care Profile – New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs
Find information about NJ doctors, podiatrists and optometrists. Information includes education, license and practice information, and disciplinary actions. - DailyMed – National Library of Medicine
Geared to health professionals, but also helpful for consumers, this site provides package insert information for FDA approved drugs. - About Herbs, Botanicals & Other Products – Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Find information for consumers and health professionals on herbal products, vitamins, and more. - The Nutrition Source – Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
Comprehensive coverage of nutrition topics including foods, drinks, vitamins, carbohydrates, diets, sleep and exercise. - NIMH – National Institute of Mental Health
This extensive government site provides information on specific conditions, funding, news and outreach information relating to mental health. - Family Caregivers Alliance – Advice and guidance on providing caregiving tasks. Search for state specific resources.
- MedlinePlus – National Library of Medicine
The premier consumer health website from the NLM has high quality information on health topics, and also has information on drug and supplements, genetics, medical tests, organizations and more.
Other Resources
More great websites mentioned:
- Medicare Compare
- Drugs.com
- ClinicalTrials.gov
- PubMed
- NJ Department of Agriculture – Jersey Fresh
- Micronutrient Information Center
- NJ211 – Mental Health Resources
- Eldercare Locator
Here is follow-up information based on questions from previous classes – thanks for your participation!
Sources for Multimedia:
CDC – Social Media at CDC
MedlinePlus – Videos and Tools
National Institutes of Health – Free Web Content
Resources to find a therapist:
American Psychological Association – How Do I Find a Good Therapist?
American Psychological Association – Psychologist Locator
Anxiety and Depression Association of America – Find a Therapist
Mental Health America – How Do I Find a Therapist?
Sources for Hospital Information:
Medicare.gov – Compare Hospitals, Nursing Homes and Other Providers
The LeapFrog Group – Health Care Ratings and Reports
American Hospital Directory – Free Hospital Profiles
If you have any questions, please reach out to Martha Sullivan at msullivan@njstatelib.org. A recording of the webinar is available at https://youtu.be/DyYmVZaeAto. Also, please down a copy of the handout, which includes many of the links above, at https://www.njstatelib.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/8-Great-Websites-for-Health-Handout.pdf. If you are looking for more health-related resources, please visit our Health and Medical Resources Research Guide.
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