WebMD

Online publisher of health information

WebMD

The WebMD logo

WebMD is an American corporation known for providing health information services. It is a leading source of health, medical, and wellness information for consumers and healthcare professionals. The company was founded in 1996 and has since become a trusted resource for millions of users seeking medical advice and information.

History

WebMD was established in 1996 by James H. Clark and Pavan Nigam. The company quickly grew to become one of the most visited health websites on the internet. In 1999, WebMD merged with Healtheon, a company founded by Jim Clark, to form Healtheon/WebMD. This merger helped WebMD expand its reach and influence in the digital health information space.

Services

WebMD provides a wide range of services, including:

• Symptom Checker: An interactive tool that allows users to input symptoms and receive potential diagnoses.
• Drug Information: Detailed information about prescription and over-the-counter medications, including side effects and interactions.
• Health News: Up-to-date news articles on various health topics, including medical research, health policy, and wellness tips.
• Medical Reference: Comprehensive articles on diseases, conditions, and treatments, written and reviewed by healthcare professionals.
• Mobile Apps: WebMD offers mobile applications for both iOS and Android devices, providing users with access to health information on the go.

Audience

WebMD's primary audience includes consumers seeking health information and healthcare professionals looking for medical resources. The website is designed to be user-friendly and accessible, with content that is easy to understand for the general public.

Criticism and Controversy

WebMD has faced criticism over the years for its advertising practices and the potential for conflicts of interest. Some critics have raised concerns about the influence of pharmaceutical companies on the content provided by WebMD. Despite these criticisms, WebMD remains a popular and widely used resource for health information.

Acquisitions and Partnerships

WebMD has acquired several companies to expand its services and reach. Notable acquisitions include the purchase of Medscape, a leading online resource for healthcare professionals, in 2001. WebMD has also formed partnerships with various organizations to enhance its offerings and provide more comprehensive health information.

Related pages

• Medscape
• Healthline
• Mayo Clinic
• Everyday Health