Chapter 26 Understanding Health Information

© Copyright 2005 Delmar Learning, a division of Thomson Learning, Inc.2 Chapter Objectives 1.Describe several sources of health information 2.Explain the difference between reliability and validity 3.Identify common characteristics of health fraud or quackery 4.List ways to practice good self-care (continues)

© Copyright 2005 Delmar Learning, a division of Thomson Learning, Inc.3 Chapter Objectives (continued) 5.List and briefly describe the major differences between conventional and complementary (alternative) medicine 6.Identify the major differences between prescription and nonprescription drugs

© Copyright 2005 Delmar Learning, a division of Thomson Learning, Inc.4 Introduction Good health decisions are based on knowing how to find and use reliable information Skills can be learned to help acquire and understand health information

© Copyright 2005 Delmar Learning, a division of Thomson Learning, Inc.5 Finding Health Information Reliability and validity Sources of health information –Family or friends –Internet –Books, journals, newspapers, magazines –Educational materials –Doctor or other health care provider

© Copyright 2005 Delmar Learning, a division of Thomson Learning, Inc.6 Types of Health Care Conventional (Western) medicine Complementary (alternative) medicine Beware of health fraud and quackery

© Copyright 2005 Delmar Learning, a division of Thomson Learning, Inc.7 Choosing Health Care Professionals Important qualities: competent and knowledgeable Get a referral from someone you trust Check education and credentials of the professional Get a second opinion Be able to communicate with your health care providers

© Copyright 2005 Delmar Learning, a division of Thomson Learning, Inc.8 Using Medications Types of medications –Prescription –Over-the-counter (OTC) Side effects Read labels and instructions Brand-name drugs versus generic drugs Medication dangers

© Copyright 2005 Delmar Learning, a division of Thomson Learning, Inc.9 Summary It is important to develop and practice your health literacy skills Know how to find reliable and valid sources of health information Practice good self-care and see a doctor when necessary Know how to use medications wisely