Wednesday, April 1, 2009

National Health Service (UK) - Health News

Behind the headlines provides an unbiased and evidence-based analysis of health stories that make the news.

The service is intended for both the public and health professionals and endeavours to:
  • explain the facts behind the headlines and give a better understanding of the science that makes the news,
  • provide an authoritative resource for GPs which they can rely on when talking to patients, and
  • become a trusted resource for journalists and others involved in the dissemination of health news.
Behind the headlines is the brainchild of Sir Muir Gray, chief knowledge officer of the NHS and a lifelong advocate of patient empowerment.
"Scientists hate disease and want see it conquered," said Sir Muir. "But this can lead to them taking an overly optimistic view of their discoveries which is often reflected in newspaper headlines.
"Our service has more time to examine the science behind the stories. Independent experts check the findings and assess the research methods to provide a more considered view." 

http://www.nhs.uk/News/Pages/NewsIndex.aspx