Help you use

What to do with what you find

Using online health information usually has benefits like feeling more informed and empowered. But, sometimes, it leads to more worries, avoiding the advice of a health professional, and tensions in your relationship with others.

Basics

Most people look for health information online for themselves or to share with someone else. Here are tips on how to save and share the information you find.

To save for future use:

  • Bookmark the page in your browser
  • Email the page to yourself
  • Take notes for yourself
  • Print the page out
  • Take a screenshot on your phone (Tutorials)
Watch the tutorial: How to Bookmark a Website in Google Chrome

To share with someone:

  • Look for the word ‘share’ on the webpage and use the share-buttons.
  • Copy the link (URL, web address) from the top of your browser and send by email.

Checking Symptoms

The first thing many of us do when we don’t feel well is to “Google” our symptoms. While it is important to be informed, sometimes checking the symptoms online leads to the wrong treatment and to worry.

  • Remember that information may or may not be useful. For example, it is useful to know how to measure temperature correctly. But, knowing that fever can be a possible symptom of a very rare disease could make you worry, and this is not useful.
  • Remember to always discuss your specific symptoms with a health professional by phone, online, or in-person.

Discussion

Based on research results, discussing the information you find with a health professional can reduce worry. Here are some tips and tools to help you prepare for the discussion.

Montreal Children’s Hospital

Montreal Children’s Hospital offers an easy-to-use tool for all ages on how to make the most of your doctor’s appointment by taking PART in your healthcare (English & French):

  • Prepare for your visit, list main concerns, and monitor symptoms
  • Ask questions about the diagnosis, tests, treatments, and follow-up
  • Repeat back the doctor’s conclusion and any instructions
  • Take action with your health care plan and let your doctor know if follow-up is required

“How To” Health Guide
(English & French)

  • “How To” Health Guide – Health Charities Coalition of Canada provides basic information on how to talk to your doctor, ask for a second opinion, and manage your condition.

HealthlinkBC
(English)

Choosing Wisely Canada
(English & French)

  • Choosing Wisely Canada – As part of an education campaign to reduce unnecessary tests and treatments, this website provides patient-oriented pamphlets, tips for decision-making, and recommendations organized by specialty.

DiscutonsSante.ca
(French)

  • DiscutonsSante.ca – A website developed with members of the Primary Care Research Team from Quebec (Canada), offering tools and a personalized account to help you prepare for a visit.

More help

Need more help understanding health information?

  • Consult a health professional (nurse, family doctor, or pharmacist).
  • You can use the public health information telephone lines to talk to a registered nurse in your province or territory. These lines are available 24/7, confidential, free, and offer translation services.

Dial: 811

In Alberta, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, North Western Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan, Yukon

Dial: 1-888-315-9257

In Manitoba

Dial: 1-866-797-0000

In Ontario

Need help understanding and navigating the health system?

Here are some examples of provincial resources. Similar websites exist for all Canadian provinces and territories.

Portail santé mieux-être (English & French)

The Government of Quebec guides you where to go for a health problem.

Régie de l’assurance maladie Québec (English & French)

Provides information on health insurance, services, drug insurance and aid programs in Quebec (Canada).

HealthLinkBC  (English)

You can search the directory of services provided across British Columbia, including walk-in clinics, emergency rooms, hospitals, mental health programs, home care programs, pharmacy services, laboratory services, and more.

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