When searching for reliable health information online, two names often come up: Healthline and WebMD. Both platforms offer extensive medical content, symptom checkers, and health advice, but which one is better for Australians? Let’s explore their differences, strengths, and what makes each unique to help you decide.
Popularity and Reach
Recent data shows that Healthline has overtaken WebMD in global traffic and engagement. As of early 2025, Healthline attracted over 106 million visits in three months compared to WebMD’s 60 million, with Healthline ranking higher globally and in Australia specifically. Healthline also boasts longer average visit durations and more pages viewed per visit, indicating deeper user engagement.
Content Quality and User Experience
Healthline is praised for its user-friendly interface, clear writing style, and inclusion of interactive content such as educational videos and animations9. It focuses on empathy and medical accuracy, tailoring content to meet users’ needs throughout their health journeys. Healthline’s content is clinically reviewed and often cites reputable sources, including Mayo Clinic, enhancing its trustworthiness.
WebMD, a long-standing leader in health information, provides a vast library of articles, medical news, and community support forums. However, some analyses suggest WebMD’s content can be less engaging, with fewer citations and less interactive material compared to Healthline6. WebMD also has a higher bounce rate, meaning visitors often leave quickly without exploring much content.
Trust and Credibility
Both sites are considered reputable sources, but Healthline’s recent rise is attributed to better understanding user intent, improved SEO strategies, and a focus on quality content that resonates with readers. Healthline’s CEO has been rated more favorably by employees, reflecting a positive company culture that may influence content quality.
Tools and Features
Healthline offers a suite of consumer-friendly tools including a symptom checker, pill identifier, drug comparer, and doctor directory. These features make it easier for users to interact with the content and find practical health solutions.
WebMD also provides symptom checkers and drug information but is generally seen as more traditional in its approach, with less emphasis on multimedia content and user engagement9.
Australian Relevance
While both websites are US-based, Healthline’s growing global reach and adaptable content make it increasingly relevant to international audiences, including Australians. WebMD remains popular but may have more US-centric information.
Summary: Which Should Australians Choose?
- Choose Healthline if: You want an engaging, easy-to-navigate site with interactive tools, up-to-date content, and a user-focused approach. It offers a more modern experience with deeper content exploration.
- Choose WebMD if: You prefer a long-established health information site with a broad range of medical news and community forums, and you are comfortable navigating a more traditional layout.
Ultimately, both platforms are valuable resources but Healthline’s recent growth, user experience, and content quality give it an edge for many Australians seeking trustworthy health information online.