The STANDS Criteria for Evaluating Medical Information
"Many criteria have been put forth for what makes a website a credible reference source, and this issue has been much discussed in print and online.... Thus, the [Merck] Manual has drawn on existing consensus criteria to create an easy-to-remember reminder that people looking for online health information should see where the website STANDS."
- Source: Does the resource cite recognized authorities and provide their credentials?
- Transparency: Is it open and obvious whether the site's mission is educational or commercial?
- Accessibility: Is the site available without registration and is there a way for users to contact someone with questions or concerns?
- Neutrality: Is the information available purely as a resource, or does the site benefit financially from what its users do (such as buying products or visiting advertised websites)?
- Documentation: Is the site updated when needed by recognized medical experts?
- Security: Can users access content without forfeiting personal information?