YouTube Health Feature Explanation | YouTube's Efforts to Share Reliable Health Information ...

YouTube is committed to providing its users with reliable health information by introducing various features to help users understand and access authoritative health content. These features aim to offer context and information panels for health-related videos and search results. Below is a breakdown of the key points

1) Information Panels for Health Source Context :

When watching health-related videos on YouTube, users may see an information panel below the video that provides context about the source of the health content. The criteria for identifying credible health sources were initially established in the United States, based on principles from the National Academy of Medicine (NAM) and American Public Health Association (APHA).These principles emphasize that authoritative sources should be science-based, objective, transparent, and accountable. Eligible health sources include accredited organizations like healthcare institutions, educational institutions, public health departments, government organizations, and Medical Journals . Youtube is also working to include eligible individual health professionals and non-accredited organizations with health-focused YouTube channels . Doctors and healthcare professionals can apply for eligibility to have an information panel on their channels in some countries.

2) Health Content Shelf:

YouTube provides a health content shelf in search results for specific health conditions, based on expert principles from NAM, WHO, and CMSS . In the UK, the National Health Service (NHS) plays a key role in determining which channels are eligible for the shelf, and NHS organizations can self-certify against the NHS Standard for Creating Health Content to indicate their credibility.

3) Health Information Panels in Search:

When users search for health-related topics, such as COVID-19, YouTube displays health information panels that offer information on symptoms, prevention, and treatment from authoritative sources like the World Health Organization .in some regions, there may be links to clinically confirmed self-assessments provided by Google or local health authorities.

4) Information Sources and Locally Relevant Content:

Information in these panels comes from government agencies, health ministries, and respected medical institutions to provide locally relevant and authoritative health information.

5) Consult a Healthcare Professional:

Stress that the health-related information on YouTube is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Users should consult a healthcare provider for their specific medical concerns.

6) Privacy and Reporting Incorrect Information:

The health features on YouTube are triggered only when users search for or watch health-related content. Their watch and search history do not affect these features. Users can report incorrect information or provide feedback on health features using the provided channels and hashtags.

In summary, YouTube is taking steps to ensure that users have access to reliable and credible health information. These features are designed to enhance the visibility of authoritative sources and help users make informed health-related decisions. Doctors can also contribute to this effort by applying for eligibility in countries where this option is available.

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Youtube Health info