Research Article

Quality of Novel Coronavirus Related Health Information over the Internet: An Evaluation Study

Table 1

Categories and examples of the DISCERN tool.

DISCERN tool questionsCategoriesExamplesNo. of evaluation items

Are the aims clear?ObjectivesIntroduction of coronavirus, diagnosis/assessment of coronavirus2
Does it achieve its aims?
Is it relevant?RelevanceRisk factors/causes/ethology, symptoms of coronavirus3
Is it clear what sources of information are used to compile the publication (other than the author or producer)?Information credibilityCitations/reference material to the information presented2
Is it clear when the information used or reported in the publication is produced?Date of publication
Is it balanced and unbiased?Treatment choicesProduct advertisement
Coronavirus treatment and various treatment approaches
How to self-manage coronavirus?
Who to consult or refer to in case of coronavirus?
4
Is it clear that there may be more than one possible treatment choice?
Based on the answers to all of the above questions, rate the overall quality of the publication as a source of information about treatment choices
Does it describe how each treatment works?Treatment effectWhat are the best approaches evident for coronavirus treatment?
What are the new treatment approaches that are currently being explored?
Are the benefits of each treatment modality clearly illustrated?
Complications of coronavirus
4
Does it describe the benefits of each treatment?
Does it describe the risks of each treatment?
Does it describe what would happen if no treatment is used?
Does it describe how the treatment choices affect overall quality of life?
Does it refer to areas of uncertainty?
Does it provide support for shared decision-making?
Does it provide details of additional sources of support and information?Prevention and managementWho to consult or refer to?1