Assessing the quality of information to support people in making decisions about their health and healthcare

A study was carried out to determine the current quality of health information and to assess the added value of accrediting information providers. The study consisted of four components: a) a review of research evidence on patients’ information needs and the effectiveness of providing health information; b) a web search, a survey of health information specialists, and a statistical review to estimate the number of organisations providing health information; c) a detailed assessment of 40 information materials; and d) a telephone survey of information providers to obtain information on the development process.