Nurses - If your doctor is not able to give you immediate attention, nurses are very helpful (and free) means by which to acquire information. Calling the nurse at your doctor's office is a wonderful idea if you have a question you need answered by a source you can trust. Occasionally nurses are not able to take your call and may need to call you back; they are certainly more available to speak on the phone than the doctors are.

Internet Articles (Caution) - Although the internet is arguably the most convenient source of information, it is the least reliable of the sources listed in this article. There are no regulations as to what someone can and cannot post online. Unless it is a government site or a site that your doctor has referred you to, you should be on your guard. The internet is a good place to find opinions. Keep in mind that some of those health opinions are more reliable than others.

Awareness Groups - AIDS, Breast Cancer, and Heart Health Awareness Groups are good sources to receive free information. In fact, the whole purpose of awareness groups is naturally to raise awareness of a disease. Their information is usually well researched. You can easily request information from a nationally recognized awareness group at no charge.

Pharmaceutical Groups (mail or internet) - You are probably aware of several different pharmaceutical groups. They frequently advertise their products on television and in health magazines. Some of these groups provide information about the medications they are introducing on their website. This information is free and may also include a free mailing.

Take Full Advantage of Regular Doctor's Appointments: The best place to find answers to health questions is at a check-up. No it is not free to see a doctor, but if you have to go in anyway, you might as well make the visit as informative as possible. Write down non-immediate and non-emergent questions ahead of time. Keep adding to the list as the time to see your health care provider gets closer. Be prepared with your list of questions or concerns when you see your doctor. Most doctors are happy to answer any questions that you have and making a list ahead of time will ensure that you don't forget to ask something important.

You should never expect a diagnosis over the phone or by reading an article. There are some answers to health questions that you simply need to pay to have a doctor first examine and then diagnose. Also, it should go without saying that if you have an emergency and need medical information it is best to call 911 and receive professional help. No two health cases are exactly alike and sometimes seeing a doctor (even if you have to p