Losing your head? An evaluation of the readability and reliability of patient information available online for avascular necrosis of the head of the femur
Amber Downes, Ciaran Stanley, Ryan Donnelly, Terence Murphy
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Abstract
Title
Losing your head? An evaluation of the readability and reliability of patient information available online for Avascular Necrosis of the Head of Femur.
Background
Avascular necrosis of the head of femur commonly affects patients with an average age of 58.3 years, and is generally managed in the elective setting, allowing patients a timeframe to research their diagnosis and management options. The aim of this study is to evaluate the readability and reliability of the information available online to patients about this condition.
Methods
Google, Bing and Yahoo internet search engines were utilised, using the search terms “Avascular necrosis head of femur” and “hip avascular necrosis”, with the first 30 URLs selected for analysis. Readability was assessed using an online readability calculator to produce 3 scores (Gunning FOG, Flesch Kincaid Grade and Flesch Reading Ease). Information quality was assessed using a HONcode detection web-extension and the JAMA benchmark criteria.
Results
86 webpages were identified for inclusion for assessment.
Conclusion
The majority of the information available online about avascular necrosis of the head of the femur is not at an appropriate reading level for the general population, and less than 20% of the most accessible information available online is accredited to be of sufficient quality to be providing advice to patients. Medical professionals must work together to improve health literacy among the patients encountered, and ensure recommendation of only reliable and accessible sources of information should patients ask for guidance on finding these resources.
期刊介绍：
Since its establishment in 2003, The Surgeon has established itself as one of the leading multidisciplinary surgical titles, both in print and online. The Surgeon is published for the worldwide surgical and dental communities. The goal of the Journal is to achieve wider national and international recognition, through a commitment to excellence in original research. In addition, both Colleges see the Journal as an important educational service, and consequently there is a particular focus on post-graduate development. Much of our educational role will continue to be achieved through publishing expanded review articles by leaders in their field.
Articles in related areas to surgery and dentistry, such as healthcare management and education, are also welcomed. We aim to educate, entertain, give insight into new surgical techniques and technology, and provide a forum for debate and discussion.
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