"Information Rx" project launched in Virginia.

Abstract

The Internet has introduced a number of challenges for physicians in their daily interactions with patients. Of these, one of the most profound challenges is the availability of unreliable sources of health information on the Internet. Ask any practicing physician to explain why this availability often hinders rather than aids patient education. First, the physician spends precious examination time explaining or proving to a patient why a resource found on the Internet is not reliable. The information may be inaccurate or out-of-date. And, second, some physicians are not aware of the best available Internet resource to which they can refer patients.