The following text may have been generated by Optical Character Recognition, with varying degrees of accuracy. Reader beware!

How to find trustworthy information on the Internet The Internet offers a richness of health information, butfinding trustworthy, high quality information can be difficult. How do you know what’s good information and what’s less reliable? The Canadian Health Network consulted with health information experts to develop a checklist to help you search for reliable online health information: [2! Is the resource credible? Is the name of the author or organization clearly stated? Are they an accredited authority on the subject? Is the content relevant? Is there enough detail or does the information seem superficial? Is the information presented in a Canadian context? Is the resource timely? Is the information reviewed or updated often? Is the date of the last update marked on each item or screen? Is there clear and adequate disclosure? Are commercial links and sponsorships stated? If you have to register to use the site, is the reason clear and your privacy ensured? [SI [SI lSl lSl Are there clear caution statements? Does the site state that its health information should not be taken as health advice or a substitute for visiting a health professional? lfthere are fees associated with use of its resources, are they explained? Using the Internet to Create "Virtual" Communities Information, feedback and support discussion groups. They provide New to online discussion groups on health issues from otherwomen opportunities for women to get Try a reputable site like www. can be as close as a computer with involved and get support on their womenshealthmatters.ca (hosted |nternetaccess.Women canconnect own schedule without having to leave by The New Women’s College to others who have shared similar home. Hospital in Toronto) and click on health experiences - right across The "Le Club”. You can read personal Canada â€" thanks to the increase of stories,participatein conversations safe and reliable online discussion and submit health questions. groups. Online discussion groups are an important resource for women because: Internet connects women who may be isolated. For women who face challenges like living with a disability orin an abusive relationship, The Canadian Health Network is online support can reduce feelings of brought to you by the Public Health isolation. Geography can also isolate Agency of Canada and major health They provide information about women from their communities and organizations across the country. where to get more resources. havea negativeimpactontheirhealth. womenshealthmatters.ca at The Links provide instant access to For women living in northern, rural New Women's College Hospital useful information and services, or remote regions, it may be a lot is proud to be the CHN Women and discussion boards offerlnternet easier to get support online than in a Affiliate and a partner in FWIO's forums and bulletin boards. Users faceâ€"to-face meeting. ROSE Program. write posts or messages that can I be archived for weeks or even Thfls article was idapted from "HOME to Fénd the Most Trustworthy in ormation on t 6 Internet” by the and ion Health Network and years‘ Many women use these web "Creating Community Online” written by Kristin Jenkins for the tools to have a conversation, share . ’ H th k. advrce and troubleshoot. canad/an ear erwor Online support encourages r , www.canadian-healthâ€"network.ca women to share openly. Access :7 .i 24/7 and confidentiality are The New Women‘s College Hospital In proud to be important features of online the Women's Affiliate for the Canadian Health Network