Examine the credentials of sources on the Internet or in print to determine whether its author or organization has the required expertise and training to provide the information. Typically, information in a journal or on the Web should have an identifiable source or author. In considering the credibility of the source, ask yourself whether the particular source you are reading is likely to be objective, fair and lacking hidden motives.

The credibility of medical information is generally enhanced if it is provided by a medical institution, an entity that brings together medically knowledgeable professionals or a government health agency.

Knowing that a publication has undergone peer review by a panel of professionals in the field can also add to the credibility of information. Resources tend to be more legitimate when their publishers or authors have included contact information in the form of a postal address or phone number, which gives you the opportunity to inquire about the organization and the information presented.

An important clue to the identity of the publisher can be found in the Web site address. For example:

• A Web site address that ends in “.edu” is published by an organization that is associated with an educational institution, such as a university.
  
  
• A “.gov” ending signifies that the Web page belongs to a governmental organization.
  
  
• An address ending in “.org” belongs to a nonprofit.
  
  
• A “.com” ending belongs to a for-profit company.

When assessing credibility consider the following:

• Who is publishing the information?
  
  
• Who are the authors?
  
  
• What are their credentials?
  
  
• Do the authors have a hidden agenda?
  
  
• Is the information peer reviewed?