Reprinted from the Health District's quarterly publication mailed to district residents (Spring 2004)
TOPIC: Newly diagnosed? Find a trusted resource, chat, learn
 
by polly anderson

Question: I was recently diagnosed with a serious illness. Where can I go online to learn more about my disease and connect with other people who share my diagnosis?

Answer: If you or a family member have been diagnosed with a condition you’re not familiar with, the web can be a great place to go for more information. Here are some suggestions to get you started.
Find a trusted organization that offers information, resources
Organizations such as the American Cancer Society offer reliable information and resources for people diagnosed with cancer, for example. Governmental agencies, such as the National Institutes of Health, have reputable web sites.

Visit a message board or chat room
Many people look to message board or chat rooms to connect with others who may have similar health issues.

online terms defined
Chat room – a place or page in a Web site or online service where people can “chat” with each other by typing messages. The responses are displayed almost instantly on the screens of others who are in the “chat room.” Also called “online forums.”
Moderated forum – chat rooms that are moderated by a professional or layperson with interest or experience in the forum or chat room topic. Moderators may monitor forums for such things as use of incorrect information or inappropriate language.
List serve – People who share an interest “subscribe” to a given discussion. Their contributions are distributed by e-mail to all subscribers.
Message board – another chat or forum format. The entire discussion (or thread) is posted online for others to review.

While these areas offer support, it’s important to keep in mind that information presented or exchanged may not be accurate. Before using these resources, make sure you understand whether the information is generated by a medical professional, another individual with your condition or by a business selling products related to your condition. Be sure to discuss all advice you receive with your own healthcare provider(s), whether it comes from a health professional or a layperson.

Some examples:
• WebMD – message boards, chat rooms and more – http://my.webmd.com/member_services/boards_events/

• Mayo Clinic – questions and answers from Mayo Clinic specialists on a variety of topics –
www.mayoclinic.com/findinformation/answers/index.cfm.

Read more about your condition online
For links to select health information, visit www.healthinfosource.com/topics. If you don’t find the health topic you need, click on the “Best Health Sites” topic for tips on how to use the web to find reliable health information.