Analyze two website: webmd and any other health care website - Essay Example

Medical Websites Medical Websites Medical websites are created with different intentions and purposes; however, theyall serve a universal function which is the provision of information. An example of two healthcare websites includes webmd and livestrong. The two websites each provide information on different spheres of healthcare with webmd informing people about different pathologies, their signs and symptoms as well as treatment. On the other hand, livestrong predominantly focuses on prophylactic information and ways by which an individual can improve his or health through exercise and dietary means.

The audience targeted by webmd includes students in the medical field and patients or individuals with different diseases that require more information on the subject matter. The medical students or personnel who visit this website are aware of the information provided and familiar with the terminology used, however, patients and other individuals who are not in the medical field are unaware of the intimate detail surrounding the information provided by this website. Livestrong however is a more simplistic website and is easier to understand as it uses basic terminology which the majority of individuals are familiar with.

However, there are some problems associated with these sites. For example, individuals may read some information on webmd and self diagnose themselves with different conditions before they consult a physician. This can lead to serious consequences if individuals attempt to treat themselves. In addition, sites such as livestrong may give an individual the incorrect information to improve his or her health as these factors are often different for each person. In summation, the websites are both technically friendly, however, healthcare information especially about diagnosis and treatment should be distributed with extreme caution.

ReferencesLieber, E. M. Did WebMD Replace the Doctor? Online Health Information and the Demandfor Physicians’ Services.