This guide outlines practical options for accessing health information online.
Contents
Please do not use this guide as a substitute for genuine advice from a qualified health practitioner.
Accessing NHS Wales websites
There are a number of key NHS Wales and health in Wales websites that can act as a port of call for verified health information. The Welsh Government website help us to help you outlines different ways we can access the NHS online. This is a great starting point to link to different NHS websites and services.
NHS Wales 111
The NHS Wales 111 website contains a symptom checker web tool and a health A to Z information page. There are also many links to the websites of other services within the NHS Wales.
The live well section of the website details information relating to advice, tips and tools for a healthy body and healthy mind.
The services near you section lists information related to local health and wellbeing services across Wales. A key option on this web page is the health board services button provides you with the contact details and website address for the local health boards in Wales.
Public Health Wales
The Public Health Wales website contains information and resources for health related topics within NHS Wales.
The topics page contains information about current public health topics.
The services and teams page contains information about different NHS Wales services with contact information.
NHS Wales
The NHS Wales website contains information and resources about what the NHS in Wales does.
The national programmes and services page outlines key programmes such as Healthy Weight Healthy You or Help me Quit.
Accessing reliable health information online
Health information online can empower us to understand symptoms and understand what NHS service to access. However, there are many sources of information on the Internet, so it is important people can identify reliable Public Health and NHS resources.
There are many sources of information on the Internet, including:
- websites
- social media
- blogs
- search engines
- news websites
- forums
- podcasts
- influencers
- artificial intelligence
Misinformation and non-medically sanctioned views can cause confusion and worsen health. When you find health information online, use the Share checklist to ensure it is reliable:
- Source: make sure information comes from a trusted source.
- Headline: always read beyond the headline.
- Analyse: check the facts.
- Retouched: does the image or video look doctored or edited?
- Error: look out for bad grammar and spelling.
Digital tools for supporting your health
There are many health, well-being and fitness apps and services available. These apps can support you with the following:
- health monitoring
- well-being tools
- mental health guidance and support
- healthy habits and exercise
Your local health board may have a list of recommended health and well-being services. Always seek professional medical advice when it comes to using digital apps and services for your health and wellbeing.