52 Health Information and Services


Health Services

Health Information and Services

There are lots of places to get the health information you need.  Much of it is free and available from pharmacies, health agencies and over the Internet.  You can find out a lot from these places but most of them will tell you that the best place to find out what you need is from your doctor, especially if you have a health problem.

Media

Health information TV shows and articles have become a very important part of television, newspapers and some magazines.  All of these places are good sources of health information.  However it is important to make sure that they have the sort of information you are looking for and that the information they are giving is reliable.

Product Pamphlets & Leaflets

Many of the major companies that produce health products also provide health information in booklets, web pages and other publications.  Of course, with this information they will recommend that you use their products but, as long as you are aware of that, these publications can provide the information you need.

Bookstores and Libraries

Of course one of the best places to find health information is from bookstores and libraries.  Always remember though, if the information you need has to be up to date, to check the year the book was published (it should be just before the contents page).  If it is an old book, there may be more recent books available containing the information you need.

 

Parents, Carers, Teachers or Friends

Often an adult that you know well and trust will help you find the health information that you need.  Often, if they don’t have the information themselves, they may be able to suggest good places to look for it.

 

Government Health Agencies

Places such as hospitals and medical centres have information booklets and pamphlets that may contain the information you need and if they haven’t, they may be able to point you in the right direction.  Many government health agencies also have websites which give lots of information and advice.

 

Internet

Health is one of the biggest topics on the Internet and there are lots of sites around that will give you all the information you need.

 

Pharmacist

Your pharmacist or chemist will have information pamphlets and booklets to help you find the information you need.  Often these are advertisements for the companies that make health care products, so naturally they are going to recommend their own product.  Be aware of this before deciding whether it is useful information for you.

 

Health Care Providers

While there are many different places to find health information, nothing beats going to see your doctor or health care provider.  Often they will save you lots of time and concern and tell you exactly what you need to know.