Through the Brickell Library Outreach Initiative, EVMS librarians have provided the region’s public librarians and the public with free training on how to access health information. In the past five years thousands of people have attended EVMS classes at Hampton Roads public libraries, senior centers and health fairs on how to find health information.

When looking for health information on the Internet, EVMS librarians recommend that you always ask yourself: Is the Web site …

Current?

How often is information updated?

Has it been updated recently?

Is outdated information purged?

Accurate?

Does the website sell or persuade / educate or inform?
Are there advertisements and testimonials?
Is it easy to find specific information?

Reliable?

How are privacy issues handled?
Is there a help button?
Is there a tutorial available?
Who sponsors the site? Generally ...

.gov = government
.edu = educational institution
.org = nonprofit organization
.com = commercial company
.net = network

Evidence-based?

Is the data that underlies the conclusions presented?
Were established research standards used?
Is there an appropriate disclaimer?

Share with your Doctor?

What does my doctor think of the information?

Developed by Ruth M. Smith, MLIS, Outreach Services Coordinator
Edward E. Brickell Medical Sciences Library, Eastern Virginia Medical School