Quality of healthcare information on the Internet: caveat emptor still rules

The Internet is a burgeoning source of healthcare information for consumers and medical professionals, providing a wealth of data on diseases and chronic conditions, treatment options and patient safety. However, numerous studies have documented substantial variation in both the completeness and accuracy of this information. Although there are promising signs of improvement and new self-policing efforts, Internet users must still proceed with caution when seeking healthcare information online, as incomplete, inaccurate and even dangerous information still abounds in cyberspace. Constituencies concerned with healthcare and the Internet can take action to improve the quality of information online.