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The internet as a pediatric neurosurgery information resource
T A Maugans1, J G McComb, M L Levy
1Division of Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital, Los Angeles, Calif., USA.
Pediatric Neurosurgery
|September 10, 1998
Summary
The Internet provides highly accurate pediatric neurosurgery information for patients and providers. This resource is valuable, though guidelines are needed for optimal use.
Area of Science:
- Medical Information Access
- Pediatric Neurosurgery Education
Background:
- The Internet is a growing source of medical information.
- Critical analysis of online medical information is often lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the sources, nature, and accuracy of online information for pediatric neurosurgery topics.
- To characterize thirteen source types and nine information categories.
Main Methods:
- Searched the Internet for ten common pediatric neurosurgery topics.
- Analyzed thirteen source types and nine information categories for accuracy and nature.
Main Results:
- The educational information found online was highly accurate, with few exceptions.
- Identified various source types and categories of pediatric neurosurgery information.
Conclusions:
- The Internet is a significant educational resource for pediatric neurosurgery information for both laypersons and healthcare providers.
- Guidelines are recommended to aid in navigating and utilizing online pediatric neurosurgery resources effectively.