What is Consumer Health?
“Consumer health information is intended for potential or current users of medical services (all of us!). It is designed to be educational, and can help individuals make decisions about health-related behavior and medical treatments. It differs from clinical information—that is, information written by and for medical professionals—in that it is developed with the layperson in mind, involving less technical language and more user-friendly formats. Consumer health information may include resources about prevention, self-care and wellness, diseases and conditions, treatment, health care options, and more.”
Arnott-Smith, C..and Alla K., (2015). Meeting health information needs outside of healthcare : Opportunities and challenges. Elsevier Science.
Researching Health Topics? Try MedlinePlus first!
MedlinePlus keeps the simplicity of Google without the ads and pop-ups. The information is reliable and broad, from patient handouts to medical journal articles. Available in Spanish.
Finding a Doctor or Medical Provider
Trusted websites for learning about health care providers serving your community.
- Baystate Health, Find a DoctorFind a health care provider affiliated with Baystate Health.
- Massachusetts Health Quality PartnersPatient ratings of primary care and pediatric practices in Massachusetts.
- Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Find a PhysicianInformation on licensing, malpractice claims and disciplinary actions.
- Medicare’s Physician CompareLists physicians enrolled in Medicare. Does NOT included patient ratings.
- MedlinePlus, Directories of SpecialtiesAcademic societies offering lists of doctors, dentists, and health care specialists.
- America’s Top Doctors, Peer RecommendedFocuses mostly on doctors in large medical communities (Boston, New Haven).
- Psychology Today, Find a TherapistSearch on location and types of therapy for verified mental health professionals.