Book excerpt: The Internet has dramatically changed healthcare delivery by empowering the health care consumer to an unprecedented level. We are in a new era in which we can take responsibility for, and control of, our wellness and illnesses. Online Health Surfing will provide you with comprehensive information regarding the options available for researching Internet based health information. The sheer volume of information—there are now over 18,000 individual web sites offering health care information—is too overwhelming for the average individual to research. And most physicians are not computer-savvy and are also overwhelmed with the speed and volume of information that is disseminated on the Internet. After reading this book, you will feel comfortable turning to the web during an illness for health information. You will be able to integrate practical advice from experts regarding medical treatments into your health care and feel empowered to do so, by referencing information from quality sources when you discuss your health with your physician.