Recommendations for Using Online Social Networking Technologies to Reduce Inaccurate Online Health Information

This short report highlights the increasing use of the Internet and online social networking technologies for health information and health decision making, and the consequences of seeking information from sites with biased or inaccurate health information. As the number of disreputable health information sites continues to grow rapidly, this paper provides practical advice for health providers on how they can help prevent health information consumers from seeking inaccurate information online. Reflecting on the utility of online social networking technologies for reaching large audiences, we recommend that health providers use online social networking technologies to communicate with patients and consumers of health information and direct them to reputable sources with accurate health information. We outline the steps to this approach.