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Online Health Advice

Consumers are using the Internet to get information about health. A survey by CDB Research & Consulting indicates that consumers are showing a growing interest in obtaining information about health and beauty aids on-line as a means of supplementing traditional medical counsel.

However, easy access to virtually limitless health and medical information has pitfalls, experts caution. "My advice to consumers about information on the Internet is the same as it is for other media: You can't believe EVERYTHING you see, whether it's in a newspaper, on TV, or on a computer screen," says Bill Rados, director of FDA's Communications Staff. Since anyone--reputable scientist or quack--who has a computer, can publish a Web page, post information to a newsgroup, or proffer advice in an on-line chat room, "you must protect yourself by carefully checking out the source of any information you obtain."

The number of Web sites offering health-related resources grows every day. Many sites provide valuable information, while others may have information that is unreliable or misleading. Here are some important questions you should consider as you look for health information online. Answering these questions when you visit a new site will help you evaluate the information you find.

1. Who runs this site?
2. Who pays for the site?
3. What is the purpose of the site?
4. Where does the information come from?
5. What is the basis of the information?
6. How is the information selected?
7. How current is the information?

As an AFS Member you have access to two very reputable online sites that can help you with all your health questions: eDocAmerica and Nurse Advice Line. These benefits provide unlimited access to health information and are included in the cost of your AFS Premier Membership.

Because of eDocAmerica's convenience, you can address health concerns early and catch problems before they become more serious. eDocAmerica gives you the ability to e-mail your questions about personal and family health concerns to a licensed, board-certified physician with complete confidentiality. You’ll receive a personalized response to your specific questions within 24 hours.

AFS Members also enjoy access to the Nurse Advice Line with experienced and knowledgeable registered nurses who can help you with general health advice and answer questions about medications. If you have a medical concern when your physician is not available, help and advice is only a telephone call away and is available 24-hours a day.

Don’t let your health concerns go beyond your control. As an AFS Member you can use your unlimited access to health advice to receive trusted and reliable information.

Benefit availability dependent upon membership level and state of residence and is subject to change. In life-threatening emergencies, call 911 or local police/fire department if 911 is unavailable in your area, or go directly to the nearest hospital emergency room.