Ethics

Authored by
Staff
Last reviewed
January 29, 2024
Content Overview
Publishing trustworthy health information requires provider oversight

Health Information Ethics 2024

'We believe journalistic ethics and medical research go hand-in-glove. Which means 'do no harm.' We support confidential, patient-provider conversations by publishing fact-checked information,' Don Ward Hackett, Publisher.

'In today's fake news world, journalists must go the extra mile to protect patients from misleading information and focus on therapies that will save lives and reduce overall health costs.'

Guiding Principles:

  • Authoritative: is the source from qualified authors
  • Complementarity: all published information should enhance, not diminish, provider-patient relationships
  • Attribution: citations identify the source(s) of relevant research
  • Transparency: independence from political bias shall at all times be preserved
  • Financial disclosure: related funding source and researcher relationship must be communicated appropriately

Industry Standards:

In 1999, several eHealth 1.0 leaders gathered in New York City to define news publishing standards for the digital ecosystem. Most of those publishing standards remain compelling today.

In 2024, various news organizations deployed AI-content-creating technologies. Unfortunately, many media reports overemphasize potential benefits and ignore apparent shortcomings. While these innovative solutions offer operational efficiencies, AI-edited health information requires clear disclosures and provider oversight to empower patient trust. 

Advisory Team:

Dr. Robert Carlson, Clinical Editor, has published health news and vaccine information for three decades. 

Holly Lutmer, PharmD, graduated from the University of Texas at Tyler.

Danielle Reiter, BSN, RN, graduated from James Madison University School of Nursing.

In addition, our un-compensated advisory board members provide oversight, share industry insights, offering direct subject matter knowledge.

Crockett Tidwell RPh, CDCES, Clinical Services Manager for United Supermarkets Pharmacy. 

Jeri Beales MSN, RN provides education and vaccinations to travelers preparing for their international adventures at Destination Health Travel Clinic.

Chris Felton, PharmD, graduated from the University of Louisiana at Monroe.

Advisory Board