NHS Choices

As a starting point, I thought it would be useful to highlight some first ports of call for patient information on common conditions. The key one for NHS patients in England is NHS Choices. Scotland and Wales have their own versions - Scotland's Health on the Web and Health of Wales Information Service. NHS Choices has several useful features:

1. Health A-Z
   This feature tells you all you need to know about more than 750 conditions and treatments. You can search by A-Z, by body map, or by subject. There is also a search box so that you can type in your condition. For each condition, there is information about symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, together with details about further reading and relevant support groups. Where appropriate, there are clearly labelled diagrams. The inormation is written by health professionals, so there is no bias regarding teatment type, and it is relevant, as it is written for NHS England patients. Some conditions provide "Real stories", which are videos of patients talking about their experiences with a particular condition. In addition to all the information about conditions, there is also a section specifically about operations, tests, and procedures so that you can get an idea of what to expect.
2. Videos and blogs
   There are more than 500 videos, giving advice on health matters, sharing experiences, and describing treatments and procedures. Topics include, what to do when babies cry, infections and viruses, glaucoma, cancer, teens, and foot health.
3. Local services
   You can also use this site to find out where your local GP, chemist, hospital, maternity service, mental health service, alcohol service, or dentist is. All you have to do is type in your postcode to find details of health services closes to you.
4. Behind the Headlines
   This is an excellent service, which provides an unbiased and evidence-based analysis of health stories that make the news. Each day a selection of stories that are making the headlines is identified and analysed alongside the scientific articles behind the stories. Short, impartial, evidence-based assessments are produced and these are aimed at health professionals and patients.
5. Carers Direct
   This section of the site provides information, advice and support for carers. There is guidance on money and legal issues, a guide to caring, and also advice on carer wellbeing and rights.
6. Live Well
   Preventing illness and improving fitness is always important, and NHS Choices offers plenty of ideas, advice, and tools to ensure a better quality of life. Have a browse and fnd out about better nutrition, safer sex, quitting smoking, losing weight, and managing your alcohol intake. Just the thing for keeping your new year resolutions!