Ep 56 - Do your research! How to properly educate yourself about your health
Aug 28, 2023
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Dr. David Canes, founder of WellPrept and associate professor at Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, discusses the challenges of finding reliable health information online and the potential consequences of relying on platforms like ChatGPT. They explore the reasons why people turn to the internet for health information, the influence of online health information, and the importance of personalized care from a doctor. They also provide tips on finding the right healthcare provider and recommend using specific prompts and cross-referencing information when using chat GPT for health education.
Check the source and look for reputable medical organizations or academic institutions when seeking reliable health information online.
Be cautious of unreliable online health content due to clickbait, algorithms promoting engagement, and sponsored content; seek information from trusted sources and assess for bias.
When finding a healthcare provider, seek recommendations, check credentials, meet them to assess compatibility, consider convenience and insurance coverage, and be comfortable with your choice.
Deep dives
Finding Reliable Information Online
When looking for reliable health information online, it is important to check the source and look for reputable medical organizations or academic institutions. Citations and references to scientific studies are also important indicators of accurate information. Evaluating the author's credentials and looking for balanced views can help determine the credibility of the content. It's also crucial to be cautious of anecdotes and be aware of potential bias. Moreover, critically evaluating if the content is trying to sell something is essential. Asking your doctor for their opinion on the information you've found is also a valuable step.
Evaluating Online Health Content
It is crucial to be cautious when evaluating online health content as much of it may be unreliable or misinterpret scientific research. The abundance of clickbait, algorithms promoting engagement, and sponsored content are factors that contribute to the abundance of bad data. Checking the credibility of the source, looking for balanced perspectives, and assessing whether the content is trying to sell something are important strategies. Additionally, being aware of confirmation bias and seeking information from trusted medical organizations and academic institutions can help in finding accurate and evidence-based information.
Finding the Right Healthcare Provider
Finding the right healthcare provider can be challenging, but seeking recommendations from friends, family, and primary care doctors can be a good starting point. Checking the credentials of healthcare providers, trusting instincts, and meeting them to assess compatibility are important steps. Convenience and insurance coverage also play a role in the decision-making process. Seeking second opinions and being comfortable with the chosen healthcare provider are crucial aspects of finding the right match.
The Benefits of Using Chat GPT for Health Information
Chat GPT is a free resource that can be valuable for patients seeking to learn about their health. Patients are advised to make their prompts as specific as possible to receive relevant information. For example, patients can request concise summaries about specific health conditions or ask Chat GPT to pretend to be an expert and assess their understanding of a particular topic. While Chat GPT can offer useful general information, it may not be suitable for complex medical decisions or present data from the present time. Overall, patients can benefit from using Chat GPT in conjunction with professional medical advice.
Effective Social Media Platforms for Health Information
Different social media platforms can provide valuable health information, but the reliability may vary. YouTube's partnership with leading health organizations and labeling reliable health sources provides a commendable approach, though it may lack controversial discussions. Twitter and Instagram also have healthcare professionals sharing trustworthy information, but finding reliable sources can be challenging. Additionally, Reddit offers supportive communities and niche subreddits where patients can find valuable insights and experiences from others with similar conditions, while podcasts about specific medical topics can provide accurate information from experts. It is crucial to critically evaluate sources and consult healthcare professionals for personalized medical advice.
As we wrap up the month of August, we've been exploring the importance of finding reliable health information on the internet. In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. David Canes, founder of WellPrept and associate professor at Lahey Hospital and Medical Center in Massachusetts. Together, we delved into the challenges of sifting through overwhelming online information and the need for caution when seeking health advice.
Around 15 years ago, the Google search bar emerged, changing the way we find answers online. Nowadays, there's a search bar for everything, including health-related topics. Dr. Canes shared insights on the abundance of information available and the potential consequences of relying on platforms like ChatGPT for medical guidance.
Join us as we explore the thoughtful perspective on navigating the internet wisely. Tune in to our insightful episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, or watch it on our YouTube channel. Let's navigate the vast landscape of the internet together and ensure we make informed choices when it comes to our health.
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