Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Wikipedia isn't really the patient's friend - Opinion - USATODAY.com

Wikipedia isn't really the patient's friend - Opinion - USATODAY.com: "But it's imperative that patients not rely on Wikipedia as the primary source of their health research. Websites sponsored by the government, academic medical centers, or professional medical societies all have more authoritative information that can be relied upon.

Jay Walsh, head of communications at the Wikimedia Foundation, says: 'Wikipedia shouldn't be taken as a 100% reliable source of medical information. ... But Wikipedia always strives for a degree of improvement.'

And as for physicians, there's no excuse turning to Wikipedia as a source when reputable medical resources are a few more keystrokes away. Although these other sites might require more time for a busy clinician, doctors need to eschew convenience to ensure their decisions are based on sound medical information.

Quality patient care demands no less."

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