Chapter 26Understanding Health Information

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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)

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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

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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

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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

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Types of Health Care

• Conventional (Western) medicine

• Complementary (alternative) medicine

• Beware of health fraud and quackery

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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

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Using Medications

• Types of medications– Prescription – Over-the-counter (OTC)

• Side effects

• Read labels and instructions

• Brand-name drugs versus generic drugs

• Medication dangers

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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