Canadians feel they are lacking in reliable health care data and a majority would welcome a tool to help them understand the services available,according to a recent survey done for Manulife Financial.

And today the company launched a product that aims to fulfill that desire.

Manulife, in conjunction with Seattle, Wash.-based AccelMD, launched Health Service Navigator today, a medical resource portal for members of Manulife Financial Group Benefits.

The development of the tool stemmed from a Manulife survey that revealed nearly three-quarters (73%) of respondents looked to family and friends for medical advice and 61% relied upon the Internet—alongside the 89% who also took advice from the family doctor.

“I am encouraged that Manulife is launching a product that supports enhanced patient navigation,” noted Michael Decter, co-author of Navigating Canada’s HealthCare, a Canadian user guide on accessing medical care, in a release. “More informed patients are part of the solution to the challenge faced by health services as our population ages and the incidence of chronic disease increases.”

Health Service Navigator is aimed at addressing the concerns of plan sponsors who are dealing with rising plan costs, lost productivity in the workplace and wellness promotion.

The product gives members telephone and Internet access to information and resources that ease navigation through the web that is the Canadian health care system. As well, top professionals are on hand to provide second opinions on a number of serious health conditions.