Keywords

Internet, local health departments

 

Authors

  1. Turner, Anne M. MD, MPH, MLIS
  2. Petrochilos, Deanna MS
  3. Nelson, David E. MD, MPH
  4. Allen, Eileen MLS
  5. Liddy, Elizabeth D. PhD

Abstract

We conducted an on-line survey of 164 local health departments' staff in five Northwestern states in 2006-2007 to assess Internet access and use by staff. Most (96%) respondents had full-time access to their own worksite computer. The most important selection criterion for selecting Web sites was credibility of the sponsoring organization (55%). Accuracy (46%), reputable source (30%), and currency of information (19%) were considered most critical for assessing information quality. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (80%) and state health department (60%) sites were used most commonly. These findings can be used to improve public health Web sites and support decision making in practice.