By Amelia Sponseller, FNP-C, Menopause Society Certified Practitioner
When you develop a new symptom or receive a new diagnosis, it’s natural to turn to the internet for answers. There is an incredible amount of health information available—but unfortunately, not all of it is accurate.
As a primary care provider, I often meet patients who feel overwhelmed after reading conflicting advice online. One article recommends a supplement, another warns against it, and social media is full of people sharing confident medical opinions. So how do you know what’s trustworthy?
Here are a few simple ways to evaluate health information before acting on it.
1. Consider the source.
Who is providing the information? Is it written or reviewed by a physician, nurse practitioner, registered dietitian, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional? Reliable websites usually identify the author and their credentials.
2. Watch for sales pitches.
Be cautious if the main goal seems to be selling a supplement, detox, or expensive program. While not all products are ineffective, trustworthy medical information focuses on education rather than marketing.
3. Be skeptical of “miracle cures.”
Phrases like “Doctors don’t want you to know this,” “Guaranteed results,” or “One simple trick” are major red flags. In medicine, there are very few treatments that work for everyone.
4. Look for evidence.
Personal stories can be inspiring, but they aren’t the same as scientific research. Reliable recommendations are based on multiple well-designed studies, not a single person’s experience.
5. Check the date.
Medical knowledge changes quickly. Make sure the article or video is current and reflects today’s recommendations.
6. Be cautious with social media.
Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook can be great places to learn, but they reward content that gets attention—not necessarily content that is accurate. Even healthcare professionals may oversimplify complex topics in short videos.
7. Don’t rely on one opinion.
If one person is making claims that are very different from what most healthcare professionals recommend, it’s worth digging deeper. Good medical guidance is usually supported by a broad scientific consensus.
8. When in doubt, ask.
The internet can provide general information, but it doesn’t know your medical history, medications, or personal health goals. Before starting a new supplement, stopping a medication, or worrying about something you’ve read online, talk with your healthcare provider.
One of the benefits of Direct Primary Care is easy access to your clinician. If you come across an article or social media post that leaves you with questions, send it my way. I’d much rather help you sort through confusing information than have you make decisions based on misinformation.
At Marshview Direct Primary Care, my goal is to help you make informed, evidence-based decisions about your health—because good medical care starts with trustworthy information.
Amelia Sponseller is a Scarborough resident, Family Nurse Practitioner, Menopause Society Certified Practitioner, and owner of Marshview Direct Primary Care.
Photo: Kelly Sikkema
