Searching for a Diagnosis Online

For many people, researching health questions online is part of everyday life. After all, the internet provides answers around the clock, quickly and conveniently. However, search results can contain false information, which is particularly problematic when it comes to health. According to the DKV Report, 58 per cent of people are unable to judge whether health sources on the internet are trust-worthy. So, how can you identify reliable information? And how can you ensure your online search leads to trustworthy results? Alina Gedde, a digital expert at ERGO, explains.

Information Overload on Health Issues

Health topics are among the most frequently searched-for subjects in the digital world. From advice portals and forums to social media posts, countless pieces of information circulate online. “Many people struggle to distinguish between expert knowledge, opinions and advertising among this flood of search results,” explains Alina Gedde, digital expert at ERGO. The lack of transparency is espe-cially problematic. “It is often unclear what qualifications the information providers have, or how their content is funded,” says Gedde. Influencer marketing exacerbates the situation further. Many young people are influenced in health matters by online role models, whose recommendations sometimes conceal commercial interests.

How Can I Identify Trustworthy Health Information?

Ideally, health information should come from medical professionals who clearly state their creden-tials. “Who operates a website and how it is funded can usually be found in the site’s legal notice or ‘imprint Information that aggressively promotes certain products or procedures should be treated with particular caution,” says the expert. High-quality health information is freely accessible and free of barriers. Reliable websites clearly state who their content is aimed at and the purpose be-hind it. They also clearly point out that their information cannot replace a visit to the doctor and openly communicate the limitations of their statements. “Serious authors support their content with credible sources and scientific studies. If these are missing or unclear, it’s best to be sceptical,” explains Alina Gedde. Health information should also include a clear publication or last updated date, as medical knowledge is constantly evolving. Outdated information can therefore be inaccu-rate and potentially risky. Caution is always advised if sites promise almost miracule cures or quick results, especially if there are direct links to products or advertising.

Checking Health Influencers

On social media, the number of so-called ‘medfluencers’, ‘fitfluencers’ and ‘foodfluencers’—who discuss health, fitness and nutrition—is growing. “While some provide valuable, well-founded con-tent, others lack the necessary qualifications,” says Alina Gedde. Advertising often appears as a personal recommendation, making it harder to separate information from commercial interests. The following tips can help you spot reputable influencers: Statements about their education and exper-tise are crucial. If there are indications of medical or nutritional science training or professional ex-perience, their credibility increases. Transparency is also important: reputable influencers disclose their sources and make their financial interests clear. User comments and feedback offer further clues. Critical discussion in the comments often shows how trustworthy and reliable an influencer’s information is. With sound knowledge, health influencers can provide important educational work and make complex topics understandable.

Check and Compare Critically

Anyone with health questions can find good information online if they carefully check health infor-mation, ask critical questions and fact-check. Comparing different sources helps to put information into context. “If you are unsure, it is always advisable to have a personal conversation with medical professionals,” recommends the ERGO expert.