An automated HONcode detection system informs internet users of HONcode compliance

Abstract

The HONcode provided by Health On the Net (HON) foundation is the most successful third party certification initiative. In nearly 20 years, it has acquired a database of over 8000 trustworthy health websites, has been translated into over 30 languages and become not only a well-respected name amongst health information providers but also an increasingly well-recognised brand amongst health information end-users. The HONcode, having begun in the mid-1990s has managed to stay current and relevant two decades on, because of its ability to change and remain relevant to the present times. The past few years have been no different, and HON has been heavily involved in bringing out certain updates to further its mission of unrestricted trustworthy health information online. In this paper we present the HONcode certification process and the main changes taking place in the certification process to enable its continued success and sustainability.