2002

BUFFALO, NY, Jan. 14, 2002 - Kaleida Health offers comprehensive consumer health information to Western New Yorkers, free of charge and available to anyone, any time. Kaleida is the only health system with a full-time consumer health information service in Western New York.

The Consumer Health Information Service is provided through Kaleida's library system, which includes four sites and nine professional librarians specializing in the health sciences. The service was started more than 10 years ago as a service to patients, doctors, staff, volunteers and the community. "We recognized that the need for information extended beyond our own doctors and medical staff. Consumers also have a strong desire to learn about a condition or disease they might be dealing with or a procedure their child is having, or they may simply be looking for health and wellness information," said Diane Schwartz, Director of Libraries for Kaleida. "Whatever their request, we are happy to find the answers."

The Information provided can take many forms, from a brochure, pamphlet or journal article to a videotape or internet-based research. People may also be directed to other agencies locally or nationally for assistance. Although the information provided is not intended to take the place of a health care provider's advice, this service is an easy, confidential way for consumers to learn about virtually any health topic. "When you or your child is sick, it can be confusing and even frustrating to find your way through the maze of information out there," said Elaine Mosher, Site Coordinator of the Health Sciences Library at Children's Hospital. "We are here to help people find reliable answers."

Providing health-related information is just one of the value-added services Kaleida provides not only for its customers but for the entire community, and can influence patient satisfaction. "Arming consumers with the information they need provides them with a sense of empowerment," Schwartz said. "We find that when people know and understand more about a disease or condition, they feel like they are contributing to the healing process." This can be especially true in the case of a parent whose child is sick, as being informed can make them an active player in the care of the child. It can also help people communicate with their health care provider better.

The Consumer Health Information Service is open to the entire community, and is not limited to Kaleida patients or employees. "We are pleased to take requests from anyone who needs information, regardless of whether or not they are affiliated with Kaleida" said Shannon Wilson, Librarian for the Family Resource Center at Children's Hospital Health Sciences Library. Request forms may be obtained through the Kaleida libraries or online at http://library.kaleidahealth.org and can then be mailed, faxed or hand delivered to any Kaleida library. Responses are usually provided within 24 hours. For more information about Kaleida's Consumer Health Information Service, call Diane Schwartz, MLS, at 859-2878.