More than a dozen online health information competitors have collectively pledged to follow an ethical code of conduct relating to content, advertising and privacy issues.
The Seattle-based group, which calls itself Hi-Ethics (Health Internet Ethics), will develop standards designed to ensure that consumers are provided with reliable, safe and trustworthy health information. Founding organizations include: Adam.com, allHealth.com, America Online, drkoop.com, Healtheon and WebMD, as well as Mediconsult/Physicians’ Online.
“We believe it is crucial that we come together to articulate principles for content, advertising and privacy so consumers can feel confident using our health information and sites to make better healthcare decisions,” said Donald W. Kemper, acting Hi-Ethics chairperson of and president of Healthwise Inc., in a statement.
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