New book “Your Health in the Information Age” - reviewed enthusiastically in the Journal of the American Medical Association – see www.InformationAgeHealth.com

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Sacramento, California, July 8, 2009 — “Your Health in the Information Age” is an exciting new book that shows patients how they can work more closely with their doctors by using the internet effectively. 10 million Americans search for health information on the Internet for themselves or for loved ones every single day? 40% of Americans are able to email their doctors, but 80% want to do this.

“Your Health in the Information Age is an academic and insightful look into the exciting and nascent world of online health care. Whatever your views on the flaws and failures of the US health care system, you have to admit that things are changing. Make no mistake: online care is a game changer.” JAMA review

Are you sick? Are you getting the best treatment? Do you want to check out alternative therapies? Do you understand your symptoms? Do you know why you are taking your medications? How can you monitor your health? Can you access your doctor easily? Do you know how experienced your doctor is, and whether he or she is expert in your illness?

“This book takes on the monumental task of offering an excellent exploration of the exponentially expanding world of e-health for readers already searching health information on the Internet, as well as for relative newbies.” JAMA review

Top Tips for Patients

1. Do you want to be able to email your doctor, but don’t want to trouble them? Find out the best way of approaching your doctor, and learn about “netiquette”.

2. Are you sure you are getting the best, and most up to date, treatment? Find out where to look for treatment guidelines.

3. Are you considering taking part in a clinical trial? - find out how by searching national databases of available clinical trials

4. Do you want to improve your relationship with your doctor? Go online, simplify your healthcare, ask about e-prescribing options

5. How is your healthcare going to change in future? Find out about virtual reality and online doctors and clinics.

6. Are you an internet addict? Or are you a “cyberchondriac”? Test yourself, and look for solutions if you or someone you know needs them.

About the author

Peter Yellowlees MD is Professor of Psychiatry and Director of the Health Informatics Program at the University of California Davis. He has lived in England, Australia and the USA and is an internationally recognized expert in health on the Internet and his current projects involve virtual reality using Second Life, telemedicine, email and video consulting and bioterrorism responses. He has written over 150 scientific articles and four books, has lectured in more than 20 countries, and has undertaken many media interviews. He lives with his wife Barb, in Sacramento, California.

“Your Health in the Information Age” is available through Amazon, iUniverse and most online bookstores.