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Health Care
 Websites presented in alphabetical order The Alternative Fix 
 Companion site to a Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) Frontline program that "examines the controversy over complementary and alternative medical treatments." Covers topics such as acupuncture, homeopathy, vitamins, herbs, and integrative medicine. Features interviews with supporters and skeptics, commentary, consumer tips, a teacher's guide, video clips, a transcript, and related links. http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/altmed/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Drugs & Medications by Type, Health, Medical Treatments & Devices, Nutrition & Food Safety Last updated Jun 1, 2004 Assisted Reproductive Technology: All Reports
Review of the success rate of assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), in the United States. Includes information and statistics about patient diagnosis, patient age, pregnancy success rates, multiple births, and more. Features information about specific medical facilities. Browsable by state. Also includes a glossary and related reports. From the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Division of Reproductive Health. http://www.cdc.gov/ART/ARTReports.htm Topics: Constitutional Law & Civil Liberties, Consumer Research & Advocacy, Diseases & Conditions, Families, Medical Treatments & Devices, Reproductive and Sexual Health, Women's Health Last updated May 3, 2008 Asthma Capitals
Annual ranking of "the 100 most challenging places to live with asthma." The 100 U.S. cities are rated for prevalence factors (asthma morbidity and mortality), risk factors (air quality, smoking laws, and inhaler access laws), and medical factors (prescriptions and specialists per patient). From the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). http://www.aafa.org/display.cfm?id=8&sub=45 Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Diseases & Conditions, Housing, Statistics Last updated Apr 27, 2005 Bureau of Justice Statistics
Data on the U.S. murder rate, drug use, and crime rates, and reports on such subjects as violence against women, capital punishment, drugs and crime, guns used in crimes, and prison populations. http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Crime, Drugs, Social Issues, Statistics, Women Last updated Feb 21, 2005 Busted: America's War on Marijuana
"A behind-the-scenes report on the marijuana industry and the controversial effort to eradicate it." Includes interactive quizzes; related interviews; opposing views and reports on the effectiveness of D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education); a marijuana timeline; information on laws, sentencing, and prices; two case histories of individuals serving marijuana-related prison terms; and principles for practical drug policies from "experts with varying political perspectives." From the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) series Frontline. http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/dope/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Drugs, Drugs & Medications by Type, Law by Subject, Plants by Name Last updated Jan 2, 2009 CDC: DES Update
"Diethylstilbestrol (DES) is a drug once prescribed during pregnancy to prevent miscarriages or premature deliveries. ... In 1971, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advised physicians to stop prescribing DES because it was linked to a rare vaginal cancer." This site offers health professionals and consumers information about the health risks and recent research on DES exposure as well as a list of DES advocacy organizations, bibliography, glossary, and instructor materials. http://www.cdc.gov/DES/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Diseases & Conditions, Drugs & Medications by Type, Reproductive and Sexual Health, Women's Health Last updated Feb 24, 2005 The Changing Face of Skin Care
2004 series on the rise in popularity of the "'cosmeceutical' -- a product marketed as a cosmetic that purportedly has biologically active ingredients that affect the user." Includes a slide show of some products, such as wrinkle creams marketed as alternatives to Botox injections, alpha hydroxy acid, hyaluronic acid, prescription vitamin A creams and gels, and vitamin C sunscreens. From BusinessWeek magazine. http://www.businessweek.com/bwdaily/dnflash/nov2004/nf20041130_0962_db035.htm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Fashion, Health & Medical Disciplines Last updated Oct 5, 2005 CMS: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Consumer information on Medicare, Medicaid, SCHIP (State Children's Health Insurance Program), HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996), and CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments). Covers news, laws and regulations, and programs. Resources include a searchable directory of contact information, forms, and a glossary. http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Drugs, Federal (U.S.) Government, Finance, Health, Senior Health, Seniors Last updated Jun 24, 2002 CNN.com: Hurricane Katrina
News coverage of the disaster includes satellite images, personal accounts, a list of people reported safe at CNN's hurricane victims desk, photographs submitted by the public, stories about economic issues (such as gas price gouging and federal disaster relief), and stories about health issues (such as potential disease outbreaks and status of medical facilities). Also includes video clips. http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2005/katrina/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Hurricane Katrina, Oil & Gas, Photograph Collections Last updated Sep 8, 2005 Consumer Reports Best Buy Drugs
Collection of reports that evaluate prescription medicines used for common conditions such as high cholesterol, arthritis, and heartburn. The reports look at efficacy, safety, and price to recommend the best medicines. Reports also provide a general overview of the drugs and cost comparisons of the generic and brand-name drugs. From Consumer Reports with research input from Oregon Health and Science University. http://www.consumerreports.org/health/best-buy-drugs/index.htm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Diseases & Conditions, Drugs, Finance, Health, Senior Health Last updated Sep 30, 2009 Consumer Reports Online
The free content on this subscription-based site includes safety alerts, product recalls, a manufacturer locator, and feature articles in topics such as Cars & Trucks, Appliances, Electronics, House & Home, Home Office, Money, Health & Food, Personal, and Leisure. Also find links to consumer agencies, and a gallery of product-testing photos going back decades. From the not-for-profit Consumers Union. http://www.consumerreports.org/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Finance, Food & Cooking, Magazines, Photograph Collections Last updated Aug 10, 2009 ConsumerLab.com
ConsumerLab.com provides updated "independent testing results about health, nutrition, and wellness products to consumers and healthcare providers." The site provides background and basic testing and results of herbals, vitamins, minerals, other supplements, and fortified foods and beverages at Laboratory Test Results . A complete review and analysis of products is available to paying subscribers. In addition, CL HealthSearch users can search for information on disease, therapy, or other topics from Medline, online journals, and medical organizations. http://www.consumerlab.com/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Drugs & Medications by Type, Medical Treatments & Devices, Nutrition & Food Safety Last updated May 23, 2006 Consumer's Tool Kit for Health Advance Planning
"This tool kit contains a variety of self-help worksheets, suggestions, and resources [for creating health care advance directives]. ... The tool kit does not create a formal advance directive for you. Instead, it helps you do the much harder job of discovering, clarifying, and communicating what is important to you in the face of serious illness." Topics include choosing a health care agent or proxy and after-death decisions. From the American Bar Association (ABA). http://www.abanet.org/aging/toolkit/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Diseases & Conditions, Senior Health Last updated Apr 5, 2005 Consumers Union
This site "provides informative and educational materials developed by Consumers Union's advocacy offices on a variety of consumer issues, including health care, financial services, food safety, product safety, and more." It also offers tips, current press releases, and materials in Spanish. Searchable. Companion site to their Consumer Reports Online . http://www.consumersunion.org/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Finance, Nutrition & Food Safety Last updated Jul 19, 2002 ConsumerSearch
This resource reviews products, analyzes other reviews, and provides top-rated products listings. Their reviewers include "former writers for Consumer Reports, PC Magazine, and The New York Times; a Wall Street research analyst; and talent from dozens of major magazines and newspapers." Product categories include electronics, sports, office, kitchen, health, automotive, and garden. http://www.consumersearch.com/ Topics: Business, Business, Consumer Research & Advocacy Last updated Dec 15, 2004 Council for Affordable Health Insurance (CAHI)
CAHI "is a research and advocacy association of insurance carriers active in the individual, small group, MSA [Medical Savings Accounts] and senior markets. ... Membership includes insurance companies, small businesses, providers, nonprofit associations, actuaries, insurance brokers and individuals." Site includes current industry news, publications and reports, consumer information, and a glossary of insurance terms. http://www.cahi.org/index.asp Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Drugs, Finance, Health, Health Last updated Jul 5, 2004 CTIA: The Wireless Association
"CTIA [Cellular Telecommunications and Internet Association] is the international organization that represents all sectors of wireless communications-cellular, personal communication services and enhanced specialized mobile radio." The site features information about industry issues, a timeline of wireless technology, FCC and legislative materials, and materials for consumers (such as a glossary, tips on wireless phones and safe driving, and a discussion of health issues). Searchable. Some material only available to members. http://www.ctia.org/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Industries, Internet, Technology Last updated May 25, 2004 Discovery Health
This Discovery Channel site features current health news, a section on diseases and conditions, encyclopedias on diseases, injuries, surgery, and medical tests, and links to further references such as MEDLINE, a medical dictionary, and clinical trials. Find articles by physicians about health topics and calculators for calories burned by activity, basal metabolic rate, blood alcohol content, body mass index, cost of smoking, and heart rate. http://health.discovery.com/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Drugs, Drugs & Medications by Type, Health, Medical Treatments & Devices, Nutrition & Food Safety Last updated May 19, 2005 DrugDigest
Consumer health information about drugs, herbs, and supplements. Features include a page to check for drug interactions, a glossary, a drug comparison page, a treatment options page, checklists, and more. http://www.drugdigest.org/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Drugs, Medical Treatments & Devices Last updated Oct 10, 2005 F as in Fat: How Obesity Policies Are Failing in America 2005
"Obesity rates continued to rise last year in every state but one, and government policies and actions to date offer little hope of countering the trend, according to a new report by Trust for America's Health [TFAH]. ... To help combat the obesity crisis ... TFAH challenges the research community to focus on five major research questions." Includes the text of the report, state-specific obesity information (except for Hawaii), and related materials. http://healthyamericans.org/reports/obesity2005/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Diseases & Conditions, Statistics Last updated Sep 1, 2005 Fast Stats: Mammography
Provides statistics on mammograms and breast cancer death rates, with links to complete tables from the data sources. Also includes related Web links. From the National Center for Health Statistics of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/mamogram.htm Topics: Cancer, Consumer Research & Advocacy, Statistics, The Human Body, Women, Women's Health Last updated Sep 22, 2004 Federal Services for Constituents Available in Foreign Languages: Selected Sources
This March 2003 Congressional Research Report "is a directory of sources on various federal constituent services available in foreign languages, to assist congressional offices in serving non-English speaking constituents." Organized by topics such as employment, consumer protection, health issues, housing, immigration, taxes, and voting. Opens directly into a PDF document. http://www.thememoryhole.org/crs/RL31731.pdf Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Education, Federal (U.S.) Government Last updated May 23, 2004 Find a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan
"An interactive tool that allows you to narrow your search for a Medicare prescription drug plan [and also enroll] based on your personal preferences such as cost, coverage and convenience." Includes overview on how Medicare works, a glossary of related terms, and "coverage information for individuals who currently receive prescription drug coverage through Military retiree benefits (TRICARE), Veteran benefits (VA), or Federal employee retiree benefits (FEHBP)." From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. http://www.medicare.gov/MPDPF/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Drugs, Federal (U.S.) Government, Health, Health, Senior Health, Seniors Last updated Jun 8, 2006 Flu.gov
This page provides links to information about influenza from a variety of federal government offices. Topics include general questions and answers, vaccine availability, prevention, treatment, pandemic flu, and planning for businesses, communities, schools, transportation, and hospitals. The "About the Flu" section includes information about H1N1 (Swine Flu) and H5N1 (Bird Flu). From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. http://www.flu.gov/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Federal (U.S.) Government, Infectious Diseases, Medical Treatments & Devices, Public Health & Safety Last updated Sep 30, 2009 Frequently Asked Questions About COBRA Continuation Health Coverage
A brief explanation of the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) that "provides certain former employees, retirees, spouses, former spouses, and dependent children the right to temporary continuation of health coverage at group rates." The site discusses who qualifies, qualifying events, the duration of COBRA coverage, what it costs, and more. From the United States Department of Labor. http://www.dol.gov/ebsa/faqs/faq_consumer_cobra.html Topics: Business & Consumer Law, Consumer Research & Advocacy, Drugs, Finance, Health Last updated Mar 16, 2004 Frequently Used Sites Related to U.S. Federal Government Information
This is a directory of links to popular government documents on the Internet. The links are organized by topics including major government indexes, business, crime, census, congress, consumer information, copyright, education, foreign countries, health, impeachment, natural resources, law, scientific reports, and tax forms. Information on the situation in Iraq is highlighted. From the Federal Documents Task Force (FDTF) and the Government Documents Round Table (GODORT) of the American Library Association. http://www.library.vanderbilt.edu/romans/fdtf/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Federal (U.S.) Government, Government, Government Last updated May 25, 2005 Global Health and Safety Initiative
This umbrella organization of health care providers, nonprofit organizations, group purchasers, and government agencies is dedicated to creating safer, more environmentally friendly health care facilities. The group's website provides fact sheets (on topics such as insulation and formaldehyde), other documents, details about projects and work groups (such as healthy purchasing and sustainable operations), and event listings. http://www.globalhealthsafety.org Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy Last updated Jul 30, 2008 Guide to Health Care Quality
This booklet offers information for consumers on evaluating health care services to find quality care and make good health care decisions. It provides tips on finding and communicating with a physician, asking questions, and taking an active role in health care. From the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. http://www.ahrq.gov/consumer/guidetoq/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Health Last updated Mar 19, 2007 health08.org
Information about health care issues addressed by the presidential candidates in the 2008 presidential election. Features news, video clips, analysis, poll results, and side-by-side comparisons of the candidates' positions on health care issues (such as expansion of public programs, insurance premium subsidies, cost containment, and financing). Also includes links to campaign resources for each candidate. From the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation. http://www.health08.org/ Topics: 2008 Presidential Election, Consumer Research & Advocacy Last updated Nov 19, 2007 HealthCentral
This consumer-oriented site includes information on health for women, men, kids, and seniors; alternative and complementary medicines; fitness and nutrition; and more. Also features advice from Dr. Dean Edell. Searchable. http://www.healthcentral.com/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Medical Treatments & Devices, Ready Reference & Quick Facts, Senior Health Last updated May 26, 2004 HealthCORE: Health Communities Online Resource Education
This project addresses health literacy issues through providing access to electronic consumer health information. The website provides links to information for consumers on specific conditions, community/public health resources, and health literacy information for professionals in the medical field. Includes links to information in Spanish. From the Medical Center of Central Georgia (MCCG). http://www.healthCOREinfo.org Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Health Last updated Oct 12, 2005 Healthfinder: Your Guide to Reliable Health Information
This site for consumers contains a directory of health organizations and links to hundreds of sites featuring "government and nonprofit health and human services information." Includes news, articles, and a Kids section. Parts of this site available in Spanish. Searchable, and browsable by topic. From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. http://www.healthfinder.gov/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Health, Health Last updated May 19, 2005 Healthinfoquest: Pathfinders to Common Consumer Health Questions
A training resource for librarians and laypersons. The site has a set of pathfinders and practice questions dealing with common health and medical topics. Each pathfinder leads the user through the research process by choosing appropriate online sources and demonstrating search strategies. A collaborative effort by medical and public librarians. http://nnlm.gov/archive/healthinfoquest/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Drugs, Health, Internet Guides & Search Tools, Medical Treatments & Devices Last updated Jun 14, 2006 Human Ageing Genomic Resources (HAGR)
This site provides "a collection of databases and tools designed to help researchers understand the genetics of human ageing." It features a searchable and browsable database of genes related to human aging and a database of "longevity, metabolic rates, phylogeny, rate of ageing, and ageing phenotype" for various animals. Also includes a searchable bibliography and links to related sites. From a postdoctoral fellow at Harvard Medical School. http://genomics.senescence.info Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Health, Health & Medical Disciplines, Science, Senior Health Last updated Jan 25, 2005 iHealthBeat
This free daily news digest reports on the impact of technology on health care. It provides special reports, features, and data points on topics such as patient safety, physician practices, privacy and security, health plans, consumer information, and telemedicine. Registration (free) required for access to full content and for email newsletter. From the California HealthCare Foundation. http://www.ihealthbeat.org Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Health, Technology Last updated Feb 20, 2008 Insure.com
This site for "self-directed insurance shoppers" offers quotes from insurance companies. Information includes company address, policy information, benefit analysis, plan guidelines, premiums, the latest A.M. Best, Duff & Phelps, Moody's, Standard & Poor's and Weiss Research, Inc. ratings, and ability to apply online. Includes term life, life, auto, medical, Medicare, long-term care, homeowner and renter's, dental, disability, annuities, and travel insurance. http://www.insure.com/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Finance, Investing, Long-term Care, Senior Health Last updated Jun 12, 2004 Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO)
The JCAHO evaluates and accredits over 15,000 health care organizations and programs, including hospitals, health care plans and providers, home care organizations, long-term care facilities, behavioral care, ambulatory care, and clinical laboratories. Browse the directory "Quality Check" to find a facility's accreditation rating, performance report (if available), and contact information. The site also explains how to report a complaint about a health care organization. Searchable. http://www.jointcommission.org/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Health, Long-term Care Last updated Mar 15, 2006 LIFE [Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education]
LIFE "is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping consumers make smart insurance decisions to safeguard their families’ financial futures. The main topics we address in our educational efforts are life, disability, long-term care and health insurance." Each section includes descriptions and sources of various types of insurance coverage, and the site has calculators and a glossary. From an insurance trade organization. http://www.lifehappens.org/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Finance, Health, Investing, Long-term Care Last updated May 26, 2008 Lung Cancer Online
This site "is a gateway to lung cancer resources for ... people with lung cancer and their families. It is intended to facilitate the time consuming and often frustrating process of learning about lung cancer, treatment options and support services." The annotated links cover general lung cancer information, treatment options, tests and procedures, complications, how to find the best care (physician, hospitals) and the best support services (support groups and organizations), and Researching the Medical Literature . The author is librarian Karen Parles, whose research in this field resulted from her own battle with the disease. http://lungcanceronline.org/ Topics: Cancer, Consumer Research & Advocacy Last updated Jan 5, 2001 MedlinePlus
"MedlinePlus has extensive information from the National Institutes of Health and other trusted sources on over 700 diseases and conditions. There are also lists of hospitals and physicians, a medical encyclopedia and a medical dictionary, health information in Spanish, extensive information on prescription and nonprescription drugs, health information from the media, and links to thousands of clinical trials. MedlinePlus is updated daily." http://medlineplus.gov/ Topics: Cancer, Consumer Research & Advocacy, Drugs, Health, Health, Medical Treatments & Devices Last updated Feb 12, 2007 Mental Health and Psychology Resources Online
Annotated and rated directory of thousands of psychology and mental health resources on the Internet. Part of the Psych Central pages maintained by Dr. John Grohol, a psychologist and computer consultant. http://psychcentral.com/resources/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Health, Health & Medical Disciplines, Mental Conditions, Science, Social Science, The Human Body Last updated Oct 23, 2007 MIB (Medical Information Bureau): Consumer Protection
Consumer materials about MIB records, reports containing codes representing health conditions reported by insurance underwriters. "When a consumer applies to a MIB member company for life, health, disability, or long-term care insurance coverage, the company may check for a record at MIB." This site contains details about the reports and instructions for requesting a free copy of your record (per the Fair Credit Reporting Act). From the MIB Group, an association of life insurance companies. http://www.mib.com/html/consumer_protection.html Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Health Last updated Aug 13, 2007 MLANET
The Medical Library Association (MLA) website has information about the organization and about the profession of medical librarianship. It also has online journals, newsletters, and links to both consumer and professional health websites. Some pages are restricted to members of the association. http://www.mlanet.org/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Health, Health, Libraries & Archives by Type Last updated Jul 21, 2006 myPHR: Personal Health Record
This website provides consumer information about health records, covering the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), health care record privacy rights, obtaining health records, and instructions for creating a personal health record. From the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), a professional organization of health information management professionals. http://www.myphr.com Topics: Constitutional Law & Civil Liberties, Consumer Research & Advocacy, Health Last updated Sep 16, 2006 National Institutes of Health: Health Information
This site is the primary access point to consumer health information from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Users can choose a specific health topic, browse categories, or search all topics to access information about specific diseases. Links are also provided to databases with information about health hotlines, clinical trials, and related topics. http://health.nih.gov/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Drugs, Health, Medical Treatments & Devices Last updated May 19, 2005 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention
Fact sheets, FAQs, statistics, policy papers, and other documents and information about suicide prevention. Topics include suicide risk factors and rates, guns and suicide, specific groups (youth, older adults, black, American Indian, Hispanic), depression and mood disorders, suicide prevention services in the U.S. and other countries, and related topics. From the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. http://mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/suicideprevention/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Death & Dying, Drugs, Medical Treatments & Devices, Mental Conditions, Senior Health Last updated Nov 14, 2006 New York Online Access to Health (NOAH): Fibromyalgia
A directory of consumer health resources on fibromyalgia, including definitions, care and treatment, causes, diagnosis, disability compensation, research, statistics, and related links. Available in English and Spanish. Maintained by librarians and health professionals at NOAH. http://www.noah-health.org/en/bns/disorders/Fibromyalgia/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Diseases & Conditions Last updated Dec 17, 2005 New York Online Access to Health (NOAH): Pregnancy
A directory of consumer health resources on family planning and contraception, pregnancy, labor and delivery, postpartum care, caring for a newborn, and many related topics. Available in Spanish and English. Maintained by librarians and health professionals at NOAH. http://www.noah-health.org/en/pregnancy/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Diseases & Conditions, Families, Medical Treatments & Devices, Nutrition & Food Safety, Reproductive and Sexual Health, Social Issues, Women's Health Last updated Dec 2, 2004 NOAH: New York Online Access to Health/Pregúntale a NOAH Sobre la Salud
This searchable directory provides access to "full-text health information for consumers that is accurate, timely, relevant and unbiased." Sites are selected by librarians and health professionals. Available in English and Spanish. http://www.noah-health.org/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Health, Health Last updated May 19, 2005 Ovarian Cancer National Alliance (OCNA)
The OCNA seeks to improve the survival rate from ovarian cancer by focusing on public education, public policy, research, and communication. The site includes information on symptoms, survival rates, research activity, workplace and other issues, and clinical trials. http://www.ovariancancer.org/ Topics: Cancer, Consumer Research & Advocacy, Drugs, Jobs & Work, Medical Treatments & Devices, Women's Health Last updated May 27, 2005 Patented Medicines Prices Review Board (PMPRB)
This Canadian board "is an independent, quasi-judicial body" created to protect consumers from escalating prices for pharmaceuticals. PMPRB provides annual reports to the Canadian Parliament on price trends for medicines in Canada and on "the ratio of research & development expenditure to sales by patentees." The site includes annual reports back to 1996, newsletters, related publications, and legislation. Searchable. Available in French and English. http://www.pmprb-cepmb.gc.ca/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Drugs, Health, Health Last updated Oct 27, 2003 Patient Advocacy Resources: A Guide for Patients and Their Families
"Created to assist consumers in becoming advocates for their own health." Includes books and an annotated list of websites on topics such as medical records, rights and privacy, informed consent, disabilities, and end of life decisions. "Quick Guides" give practical tips on how to talk to your doctor, when to seek a second opinion, and other concerns. Guide covers Connecticut as well as national resources. From the University of Connecticut Health Center, http://library.uchc.edu/departm/hnet/advocacy.html Topics: Constitutional Law & Civil Liberties, Consumer Research & Advocacy, Disabilities, Health, Librarianship Last updated Jul 26, 2005 PDRHealth: Prescription Drug Information and Health Information
Consumer information from the Physicians' Desk Reference (PDR) company about "detecting, preventing, and treating a variety of medical conditions." Disease Overviews presents facts, anatomy, and descriptions of problems associated with various bodily structures. Drug Information "is written in lay terms and is based on the FDA-approved drug information found in the PDR." Clinical Trials "provides information services featuring listings of drugs in clinical research, clinical trials, clinical trial results, FDA approvals and more." Searchable. http://www.pdrhealth.com/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Drugs, Health, Medical Treatments & Devices Last updated Mar 27, 2009 Pesticides
This site presents newsworthy and timely stories and fact sheets about pesticides. Under Quick Finder, find a browsable directory of pesticide-related topics: Health and Safety; Environmental Effects; Controlling Pests; Regulating Pesticides; Compliance and Enforcement; Grants and Partnerships; Science and Policy; and Regions, States and Tribes. Also features a section for children. From the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Gardening, Home & Housing, Home & Housing Last updated Aug 17, 2007 Public Citizen
Founded by consumer advocate Ralph Nader, this "national, nonprofit consumer advocacy organization [was] founded ... to represent consumer interests in Congress, the executive branch and the courts." The site highlights previous accomplishments (such as forcing Red Dye #2 off the market) as well as current issues and campaigns. Features news and reports about consumer issues such as auto safety, campaign finance, drug safety, healthcare, food safety, and more. Searchable. http://www.citizen.org/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Finance, Nutrition & Food Safety Last updated May 13, 2004 Radiation-Emitting Products: Cell Phones
Information about the safety of using cell phones. The site notes that there is "no proof ... that wireless phones are absolutely safe," but also that no scientific evidence shows that cell phones cause health problems. The site also discusses the standards developed to help manufacturers minimize interference with pacemakers and hearing aids. Includes an explanation of how cell phones work. From the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). http://www.fda.gov/Radiation-EmittingProducts/RadiationEmittingProductsandProcedures/HomeBusinessandEntertainment/CellPhones/default.htm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Medical Treatments & Devices, Technology Last updated Jun 16, 2009 Recall Warnings
This site features information about recalls of consumer products, including food, drugs, clothing, appliances, equipment, vehicles, pet care products, and autos. Also provides links to information about the 2003 California gubernatorial recall and to state voter recall provisions. Includes opportunity to sign up for e-mail alerts. Browsable by category or date, or searchable. From book publisher Nolo. http://www.recall-warnings.com/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Drugs Last updated Mar 25, 2005 Regulatory Fish Encyclopedia (RFE)
The RFE was developed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to help "officials and purchasers of seafood identify species substitution and economic deception in the marketplace." The site lists fish and other seafood by market, common, regional, scientific, and family names. Images of whole fish and market cuts are provided. Taxonomic (physical characteristics) and other scientific information is available for some species and market and consumer hazard notes are given where applicable.Searchable. http://www.fda.gov/Food/FoodSafety/Product-SpecificInformation/Seafood/RegulatoryFishEncyclopediaRFE/default.htm Topics: Animals, Consumer Research & Advocacy, Fish, Meat, & Dairy, Fish, Reptiles, & Amphibians Last updated Sep 24, 2009 Rx Help for WA
This interactive site "connects qualified, low-income people [in Washington state] with discount prescription drugs, direct from pharmaceutical manufacturer." Based on user-entered data, the program checks to see if specific brand name medications are available through pharmaceutical company programs. Available in English and Spanish. "A collaboration of concerned individuals and organizations joining America's pharmaceutical companies to improve health care access for the citizens of Washington." http://www.rxhelpforwa.org Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Drugs, Health, Health Last updated Dec 7, 2004 Rx Washington
This government site supports the Washington State Prescription Drug Program (PDP), which "was established to identify preferred drugs, make prescription drugs more affordable and increase public awareness of the safe and cost-effective use of prescription drugs." Offers details about the Evidence Based Prescription Drug process and Therapeutic Interchange program, a preferred drug list, information about Canadian pharmacies, and related resources. Includes a FAQ, history, and bylaws. Searchable. http://www.rx.wa.gov Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Drugs, Health, Health Last updated Nov 1, 2004 Sperling's BestPlaces
Provides comparison information (cost of living, health, housing, crime, climate, transportation) on thousands of U.S. cities. Includes profiles of neighborhoods, statistics on schools, and interactive tools to "display a ranking of the cities which best meet your criteria." http://www.bestplaces.net/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Housing, Statistics Last updated Nov 1, 2004 The Stanford Health Library
A collection of resources from the free consumer health library of Stanford Hospital and Clinics. Includes links to Web sites and electronic books (e-books) on women's health, children's health, men's health, diseases and disorders, and drug information and therapies. An online video collection addresses current medical treatments, cancer supportive care, and other health topics. The library will also prepare personalized, custom research packets (no initial cost). http://healthlibrary.stanford.edu/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Health, Health, Libraries & Archives by Type Last updated May 29, 2003 Substandard and Counterfeit Medicines
This facts sheet provides background information and statistics on pharmaceuticals "whose composition and ingredients do not meet the correct scientific specifications" and medicine that is "deliberately or fraudulently mislabeled with respect to identity and/or source." In English and French. From the World Health Organization (WHO). http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/2003/fs275/en/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Drugs, Finance, Ready Reference & Quick Facts Last updated Jul 20, 2009 Texas Watch
This consumer watchdog site provides information on "insurance, nursing home resident protection, patient protection and consumer law issues in legislative and regulatory activities." State and national issues include patient blacklisting by doctors, caps on medical malpractice damages, credit scoring, homeowner insurance, and online activism. http://www.texaswatch.org/TW/ Topics: Business & Consumer Law, Consumer Research & Advocacy, Finance, Investing, Law by Place (U.S. States & non-U.S.) Last updated Jul 2, 2008 Thalidomide Information
Consumer information about thalidomide, "a drug that was marketed outside of the United States in the late 1950's and early 1960's. It was used as a sleeping pill, and to treat morning sickness during pregnancy. However, its use by pregnant women resulted in the birth of thousands of deformed babies." Provides a FAQ, precautions and warnings, and related information about the drug. From the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/PostmarketDrugSafetyInformationforPatientsandProviders/ucm107296.htm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Diseases & Conditions, Medical Treatments & Devices, Reproductive and Sexual Health Last updated Jul 7, 2009 U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Center for Veterinary Medicine: Pet Foods
"The FDA regulates that can of cat food, bag of dog food, or box of dog treats or snacks in your pantry. The FDA's regulation of pet food is similar to that for other animal feeds." This site provides news releases, information about governing regulations, information for consumers (such as on interpreting pet food labels and selecting nutritious pet food), and links to related information. Searchable. http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/Products/AnimalFoodFeeds/PetFood/default.htm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Nutrition & Food Safety, Pets, Recipes & Food Preparation Last updated Sep 9, 2009 U.S. Soyfoods Directory
The intent of this site is to "promote the consumption of soyfoods throughout the world using: reliable, scientifically-based information about health benefits, taste-tested recipes that include nutritional information, and other resources for consumers," and others about "tofu, tempeh, textured soy protein," and other soybean products. Includes a description of types of soy food products, a database of soy food companies, recipes, and more. http://www.soyfoods.com Topics: Beans, Grains, Nuts, & Seeds, Consumer Research & Advocacy, Crops Last updated Oct 25, 2004 UrologyHealth.org
This consumer health site features a glossary, nice anatomical illustrations, a directory of urologists (searchable by name or location), and information about both pediatric and adult urological conditions. Covers female urology, adrenal and kidney diseases, cancers, and other conditions. Searchable. From the American Urological Association. http://www.urologyhealth.org/ Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Diseases & Conditions, Health & Medical Disciplines Last updated Mar 16, 2004 USA.gov: Senior Citizens' Resources
This site provides online access to government information and services of interest to seniors in the areas of consumer protection; education, jobs, and volunteerism; federal and state agencies; health; laws and regulations; retirement and money; taxes; and travel and leisure. Searchable and browsable. From USA.gov (formerly FirstGov.gov), the U.S. government's official Web portal. http://www.usa.gov/Topics/Seniors.shtml Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Federal (U.S.) Government, Senior Health, Seniors Last updated Jan 15, 2007 Ways You Can Help Your Family Prevent Medical Errors!
Illustrated, easy-to-understand suggestions for preventing medical errors such as getting the wrong medicine, taking the wrong amount of medicine, getting sick from staying in the hospital, and doctors operating on the wrong part of the body. Includes links to related fact sheets and other resources on medical errors and patient safety. Also available in Spanish. From the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. http://www.ahrq.gov/consumer/5tipseng/5tips.htm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Health Last updated Dec 3, 2007 Where to Write for Vital Records
Contact and fee information for obtaining vital records (birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates) from all 50 states, U.S. territories, and "foreign or high-seas events." Also features guidelines for how to submit a request to ensure it is processed properly. From the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/w2w.htm Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Death & Dying, Government, Statistics Last updated Aug 31, 2009 Your Child's Health: Eye Glasses and Contact Lenses
This fact sheet provides basic information about prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses, how to read a prescription, and factors to consider when choosing glasses for children. From the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. http://www.chop.edu/healthinfo/eyeglasses-and-contact-lenses.html Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Health, Health, Medical Treatments & Devices, The Human Body Last updated Oct 12, 2009 Your Dental Health: A Guide for Patients and Families
This annotated resource guide lists books, magazines, websites, and organizations dealing with a variety of aspects of dentistry for adults and children. Includes consumer-oriented information about cosmetic dentistry, implants, finding a dentist, medications, current research, and other subjects. From Healthnet, a program of Lyman Maynard Stowe Library, University of Connecticut Health Center. http://library.uchc.edu/departm/hnet/dentalhealth.html Topics: Consumer Research & Advocacy, Health Last updated Jul 21, 2005 |
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