Spotlight on Health Information Week
Health Information Week is a national campaign that runs from 19 to 25 January 2026.
It celebrates the value of high-quality health information: information that helps people stay well, manage illnesses effectively and make confident, informed decisions about their health.
Trusted health information for informed choices
In an age where health content is everywhere, from search engines to social media, knowing what to trust, where to look and how to interpret it is more important than ever. Learning to spot reliable information isn’t just useful: it can make a real difference to your wellbeing.
This Health Information Week, we’re encouraging reflection on how good health information supports better outcomes and healthier lives, whether you’re managing a chronic condition, seeking prevention tips, or planning your next check-in with a GP.
Why health information matters
When health information is accurate, clear and applicable:
It can help people make smarter and better informed choices about prevention and treatment.
It makes navigating complex topics, like symptoms, screening options or medication advice, less overwhelming.
It builds confidence and ease in discussions with healthcare professionals.
It helps reduce unnecessary worry or confusion caused by misinformation.
By contrast, poor-quality or outdated information can lead to delay in seeking care, misunderstandings about risks and unnecessary anxiety.
Health information themes for 2026
This year’s Health Information Week focuses on five key areas each with a slightly different lens on health knowledge and wellbeing.
Children and Young People: reliable information that helps support the health of the youngest members of our communities.
Translated Patient Information: emphasising the importance of access to health information in multiple languages and formats, so no one is left behind.
Women’s Health: spotlighting trusted resources on conditions and issues affecting women.
Mental Health: helping people find validated mental health guidance and support pathways.
Winter Health: timely advice on staying well in colder months, from infection prevention to immune-supporting lifestyle choices.
Health Information Week and your health
At The Hove Practice, we’ve seen how access to good health information transforms the way people engage with their care.
Rather than waiting until symptoms become serious, people are more inclined to seek earlier advice.
Patients who understand their personal risk factors are more likely to take meaningful preventive steps.
People armed with trusted facts feel more confident asking questions, challenging myths and planning next steps in partnership with their GP.
That’s exactly what Health Information Week is all about: empowering you with information that supports action, not confusion.
How to spot reliable health information
Whether you’re reading about a new symptom, screening test or treatment option, here are some simple checks to help you separate fact from noise — reflecting best practice from patient information experts:
Who published the information? Trusted sources include NHS sites, recognised health charities, or peer-reviewed medical organisations.
Is it up to date? Health knowledge changes quickly, so check when something was published or reviewed.
Does it reference evidence or clinical guidance? Good health information will be supported by clear sources or data.
Is it easy to understand and relevant to your situation? A good resource explains things clearly without oversimplifying or pessimism.
Your Private GP: a trusted source of information
Above all, Health Information Week reminds us that healthcare is a partnership: when high-quality information comes together with clinical expertise, personal context and professional interpretation, the best possible healthcare outcomes can be achieved.
If you’re ever unsure about something you’ve read, your dedicated Private GP at The Hove Practice is the ideal person to talk to. Whether you’re planning a preventive screen, managing a long-term condition, or just looking for reliable guidance, we’re here to help you make sense of the information.
Contact our front desk on 01273 733830
Email us our Reception Team at reception@thehovepractice.co.uk
Book online via our website www.thehovepractice.co.uk/bookonline
Pop in and see us 86 Church Road, Hove, BN3 2EB