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The internet has really changed my life. Now I have more of a say in my health care. But I notice that the more I search the web for information on medical conditions, the more uncomfortable my doctor seems to be. Is it true that doctors don't want patients to know what's going on?

Most doctors have their patients' best interests at heart. This means giving them accurate and reliable information about diseases, illnesses, and other conditions that might concern them. The Internet is an unregulated source of information. There are no laws to govern who writes what about anything. Web sites offering advice may be nothing more than a chat room or message board. Studies have been done on the quality of information posted on the Internet for a variety of health topics. In most cases the web-based data is not high quality or accurate. Doctors are wary that patients might make important decisions based on faulty information. There's also some concern when commercial organizations trying to sell or promote their products sponsor a website with information. Two reliable sources have warned consumers that much of the information on the Web is misleading and can hurt the consumer. The two groups are the Federal Trade Commission and the U.S. Science Panel on Interactive Health Communication. Don’t take offense by your doctor’s attitude. Gather as much information as you need and check it out with him or her for accuracy.

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