Authority. Sites should be reputable and trustworthy sources of health-related information. Sources from the federal government and professional organizations are preferred; nonprofit organizations and businesses are included if a judgment of the authority of the content producers can be made. Information should be produced or reviewed by medical professionals.

Audience. Sites should be intended for the general public rather than medical professionals.

Disclosure. The sponsoring organization and purpose of the site should be displayed.

Unbiased objectivity. Sites should provide unbiased information with limited advertising and should be objective in providing their information. The main intent of the site should be providing information, not promoting a product, service or political point of view.

Currency. Information should be current.

Design. The site should be clean and attractive. Visitors should be able to easily navigate the site and find the information you need. Most of the content should be available without a login or fee.