Crucial Role of Health Information - Essay Example

We must understand that health information can do serious damage to our health and our identity if we are not careful about the fine print. In other words, all organizations dealing with health information on the net must explain the limitations of e-information and of disclosing personal information. When people enter their medical history online, they can easily become a victim of intrusion since this information can land in just about anyone’s hands. It is thus important to only disclose information where an organization takes responsibility for protecting clients’ data. In the same vein, it is essential not to take all information seriously unless the firm has a proven track record.

The second important principle of the code of ethics is quality. All organizations and websites dealing with health information on the Net are required to provide quality information, products and services. This is a vital principle but unfortunately, all those who are selling health information on the net do not follow it. Many are simply ignorant of this code of ethics and the anonymity that the Internet allows also gives extra courage to people. They can sell any health product they want since there is no real fear of being sued.

Some of the other guiding principles include disclosure of privacy policy and truthfulness. Organizations and websites must sell the information honestly. The code of ethics for health information on the Net makes it clear that any person or organization engaged in this business needs to respect the client’s privacy and thus make the privacy policy very clear. It is also important that the client knows the truth about a product or service. There must be no hidden information or things that might have altered a person’s decision were it known.

The code also makes it mandatory for organizations and websites to deal with clients in a highly professional manner while also explaining the difference between Internet interaction and personal interaction. This is by far the most critical bit because clients need to understand that patient-doctor interaction over the Internet might be different from what it is in person. This may urge them to seek a second opinion from a doctor they can see face-to-face. If a client feels that what he has read about a condition online sounds dubious, he might seek a second opinion and confirm or dispel his fears.