Major Media Health Consumer Portals

Several major news organizations now feature patient-centered information portals with useful articles, how-tos, and links to other resources. Below is an evolving list of the ones that we have found useful to our work. Please note that this list is not exhaustive and does not constitute our endorsement of the quality or accuracy of specific sources.

Los Angeles Times Health: The LA Times publishes original research and investigations into health-care consumer issues, as well as "how to" guides for getting the best medical care possible.

New York Times Health: The New York Times regularly publishes in-depth investigations of health care industry issues of concern to patients. It also offers independent health advice columns and an online consumer medical guide. Walencia Konrad's column "Patient Money" is particularly helpful for consumers navigating insurance challenges.

US News and World Report:  US News reports extensively on trends and information useful for patients and medical consumers navigating the health care system. A May 2008 investigation, for instance, described trends in "medical tourism" for Americans seeking ways to lower out-of-pocket expenses for major procedures. Well-known for their "Best Hospitals" surveys, the news service also includes ratings and information on major commercial, Medicare, and Medicaid plans on its America's Best Health Plans page.