Reprinted from the Health District's quarterly publication mailed to district residents (spring 2000)

No health-related web site has everything, but WebMD comes closer than most. Set your browser to www.webmd.com and kick back for a treat. If you've got the time to invest, you probably won’t be disappointed. 

A quick peek will provide consumers typical fare—information on hot topics such as hormone replacement therapy, wellness, sports, fitness and nutrition—plus a well-stocked medical library. The fun begins when you click that mouse and dig deeper. 

Do you enjoy open as well as hosted message boards? WebMD has both, as well as live events featuring world-class experts. 

Perhaps you need information on local providers? WebMD boasts an option that yields in-depth information such as training, experience, hospital affiliation, office services and years in practice for more than 500,00 physicians. Type your state and county into the search engine, name your mileage parameters, wait a few seconds and selected physicians appear. Doctors can upload personal photos and update their site entries. Patients can rate their experiences with individual physicians, thus creating a handy screening service for those seeking a new provider. 

Need info on mammography and/or maternity centers? Dentists? You'll find that, too, including maps to provider offices and, in many cases, the types of insurance accepted. If you're a healthcare professional, WebMD provides a unique array of Internet-based services worth exploring. Nurses, hang on, your area is under development, but it looks promising.

If you're worried about sharing personal information, WebMD shares your concern. To allay your fears, be sure to explore the site's privacy section, including the TRUSTe program, which clearly outlines efforts to keep you safe on the web. 

Happy clicking!