BUS FPX 4127 Assessment 2 Examining Health or Medical Information

Student Name

Capella University

BUS-FPX4127 Evidence-Based Health Care Management

Prof. Name

Date

Examining Health or Medical Information

The widespread dissemination of health and medical information concerning the novel coronavirus infection has given rise to prevalent misconceptions among the populace. Since its emergence in 2019, misinformation regarding the transmission, prevention, and treatment of the disease has proliferated, particularly targeting Americans navigating life during the pandemic.

Coronavirus Information: Publication and Evaluation

Information related to the coronavirus has been disseminated through various channels, including social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, as well as other online articles. These sources have amplified false narratives ranging from alleged cures for COVID-19 to misleading government announcements (Waterfield, 2020). For example, misinformation spread concerning the efficacy of hand sanitizers against the virus, with some erroneously claiming that antibacterial hand sanitizers are ineffective due to the nature of the virus (Waterfield, 2020). Similarly, speculations suggesting the virus’s susceptibility to warmer weather have been debunked by health authorities (Waterfield, 2020).

Validity of Information Sources

The credibility of information disseminated via social media platforms is often dubious, as these platforms prioritize entertainment, garnering likes, and cultivating online followings. Consequently, misinformation has overshadowed credible sources, leading individuals to believe and act upon erroneous information (Mian & Khan, 2020). Tragically, reliance on such misinformation has resulted in fatalities, as evidenced by reports of individuals succumbing to alcohol poisoning after consuming alcohol as a purported cure for COVID-19 (Waterfield, 2020).

Negative Effects on Community Health

Social media platforms have acted as conduits for spreading rumors and deliberate misinformation, contributing to panic and confusion among the populace (Merchant & Lurie, 2020). The dissemination of inaccurate information has fostered an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty, leading to panic buying and shortages of essential supplies (Waterfield, 2020). Moreover, misinformation has fueled misconceptions regarding the virus’s transmission and susceptibility, exacerbating the public health crisis.

Impact on the Healthcare Industry

The proliferation of misinformation has profound implications for the healthcare industry, as it fosters fear and paranoia among individuals seeking medical assistance. The dissemination of worst-case scenarios by the media exacerbates panic, hindering efforts to effectively address the pandemic (Mian & Khan, 2020). Healthcare organizations must prioritize the dissemination of accurate information from credible sources such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to mitigate the spread of misinformation and ensure the safety of both patients and healthcare professionals.

BUS FPX 4127 Assessment 2 Examining Health or Medical Information

Conclusion

In conclusion, the propagation of misinformation regarding the coronavirus poses significant challenges to public health and healthcare systems worldwide. It is imperative that individuals seek information from reliable sources such as the CDC to counteract the dissemination of false narratives and mitigate the negative impact on community health. By fostering a culture of critical information consumption and dissemination, we can collectively combat the spread of misinformation and safeguard public health.

References

Merchant, R. M., & Lurie, N. (2020). Social Media and Emergency Preparedness in Response to Novel Coronavirus. JAMA. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2020.4469

Mian, A., & Khan, S. (2020). Coronavirus: the spread of misinformation. BMC Medicine, 18(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12916-020-01556-3

Suciu, P. (n.d.). COVID-19 Misinformation Remains Difficult To Stop On Social Media. Forbes. Retrieved August 2, 2020, from https://www.forbes.com/sites/petersuciu/2020/04/17/covid-19-misinformation-remains-difficult-to-stop-on-social-media/#7659b4aa4819