Showing papers in "Journal of Consumer Health on The Internet in 2007"
TL;DR: The National Sleep Foundation Web site is a comprehensive source of timely, authoritative information about sleep, specific sleep problems and disorders, and the issues associated with them.
Abstract: The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) Web site is a comprehensive source of timely, authoritative information about sleep, specific sleep problems and disorders, and the issues associated with them. In Spanish and English, with resources for health consumers and health care professionals, this Web site meets a broad range of information needs.
283 citations
TL;DR: As broadcast news media mobilizes viewers toward online health content, they must consider the difficulty of the information and literacy abilities of their audience.
Abstract: Mass media plays a critical role in communicating health messages to the public. Local television stations are posting more health content on the Web; however, the difficulty level of this information has not been evaluated. Study objectives were to assess the content of health stories on local television Web sites, and to evaluate the reading level of these health messages. The top three health articles from 79 local television news Web pages were selected for analysis. Readability was assessed using SMOG, Flesch-Kincaid (FK), and Flesch Reading Ease (FRE). A total of 278 articles were located over a two-day search. The majority of stories were national (47.0%) and educational (48.0%) pieces. Fewer articles were breaking news (19.8%). More articles focused on both prevention and treatment (30.6%) rather than on prevention (21.6%) or treatment (21.2%) alone. Mean readability was at a senior high school level according to SMOG (Grade 11.9) and FK (Grade 10.3). Overall FRE was 51.6, implying a “fai...
22 citations
TL;DR: There is a vast amount of health information on the Internet, although certain underserved U.S. populations still lack equal access to this information and this digital divide pertains not only to computer and Internet access, but also to issues related to appropriate content.
Abstract: There is a vast amount of health information on the Internet, although certain underserved U.S. populations still lack equal access to this information. This digital divide pertains not only to computer and Internet access, but also to issues related to appropriate content. Some view the Internet as one solution to eliminating health disparities, although barriers such as education, income and cost, age, location, literacy, and content contribute to a persistent digital divide. Many solutions to this problem have been proposed, but the situation still warrants further study before eHealth strategies and interventions can be effectively implemented to a wider community.
19 citations
TL;DR: A librarian-health care professional team presented the design of a blended educational program to meet information needs, improve seniors' access to trusted stroke information, and enhance health literacy to a community of seniors.
Abstract: In an effort to increase access to quality stroke information, two health care systems and a physician-based community organization in a predominately rural area of Northeastern Pennsylvania established a collaborative partnership. The project included the design of a blended educational program to meet information needs, improve seniors' access to trusted stroke information, and enhance health literacy. A librarian-health care professional team presented the program to a community of seniors. The programs took place at twenty-five senior centers and public libraries. The project included the creation of a Web site to house an online version of the program and resources. doi:10.1300/J381v11n02_01
15 citations
TL;DR: A training program to enable public libraries, public health workers, and rural hospital staff to be consumer health information providers and Fifty-two public library workers will receive the MLA's Consumer Health Information Specialist certification.
Abstract: East Tennessee State University Quillen College of Medicine Library (ETSUQCOML) developed a training program to enable public libraries, public health workers, and rural hospital staff to be consumer health information providers. Four NN/LM-developed classes were taught to public libraries. Regional public library directors were invaluable in obtaining the concurrence of their boards for release time for class attendance. Classes were also developed for the public health workforce and rural hospital staff. Five-hundred thirty-three students attended the classes. Fifty-two public library workers will receive the MLA's Consumer Health Information Specialist certification. Thirty-one public libraries have joined NN/LM. All ordered MedlinePlus marketing materials for their libraries from InformationRx. org.
13 citations
TL;DR: People Living With Cancer is the American Society of Clinical Oncology's patient-oriented Web site, created to link cancer patients, their caregivers, and consumers to “oncologist-approved” sources of Web-based information.
Abstract: People Living With Cancer is the American Society of Clinical Oncology's patient-oriented Web site, created to link cancer patients, their caregivers, and consumers to “oncologist-approved” sources of Web-based information.
9 citations
TL;DR: The process of building the goLocalUtah (gLU) database utilized a variety of online directories and other resources and valuable information was learned about these resources and their varying degrees of usefulness.
Abstract: Online directories and other online instruments can serve multiple purposes in libraries. Not only can they assist reference librarians in locating data for patrons, but they can also serve as resources in building in-house databases. The process of building the goLocalUtah (gLU) database utilized a variety of online directories and other resources. This article outlines this process and includes valuable information learned about these resources and their varying degrees of usefulness, and a discussion of potential applications in health sciences and public libraries. The authors also list online directories and other similar tools that they found to be especially valuable.
6 citations
TL;DR: The study's purpose was to get an impression of the various issues surrounding the choices made by Go Local participants pertaining to their choice of Web site hosting environments, with special emphasis placed on the organizational motivation, impact, and satisfaction precipitated by this decision.
Abstract: In April 2004, Health InfoNet of Alabama became one of the first consumer health services in the country to take part in the National Library of Medicine's MedlinePlus Go Local initiative. The availability of technical support was a primary factor in Health InfoNet's decision to participate as an NLM-hosted site rather than revise its existing Web site to meet Go Local standards. This decision meant tradeoffs concerning the service offerings of Health InfoNet, which led to the question, “What guided other project directors' decisions to participate in Go Local either via locally hosted or NLM-hosted sites?” The study's purpose was to get an impression of the various issues surrounding the choices made by Go Local participants pertaining to their choice of Web site hosting environments, with special emphasis placed on the organizational motivation, impact, and satisfaction precipitated by this decision. The paper's objective is to examine the NLM Go Local initiative in the context of evolving cons...
5 citations
TL;DR: A review of consumer health Web sites aimed to provide a starting point for disaster survivors seeking information on anxiety disorders and mental health services as discussed by the authors, focusing on the 2005 Gulf Coast storms.
Abstract: Survivors of traumatic events may experience a large range of emotions after a disaster, including anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and substance abuse. The terms “post-Katrina stress disorder” and “post-Katrina stress syndrome” have recently emerged to refer to the grief, shock, mood shifts, confusion, anger, marital discord, guilt, escape fantasies, and substance abuse that have plagued survivors of the 2005 Gulf Coast storms. This review of consumer health Web sites aims to provide a starting point for disaster survivors seeking information on anxiety disorders and mental health services. doi:10.1300/J381v11n02_05
4 citations
TL;DR: In the four years since the first MedlinePlus Go Local site, NC Health Info, was launched in January 2003, more than two dozen Go Local projects have sprung up to link MedlinePlus visitors to health-related services in their own local areas as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: In the four years since the first MedlinePlus Go Local site, NC Health Info, was launched in January 2003, more than two dozen Go Local projects have sprung up to link MedlinePlus visitors to health-related services in their own local areas.1 Each Go Local site reflects its own region's special characteristics and the choices made during its development. This article describes those characteristics and choices for Lone Star Go Local , the Go Local site for South Texas, tracing the background, circumstances and decisions that shaped it, and providing insights for other libraries and consortia planning Go Local projects of their own.
4 citations
TL;DR: The design and early data analysis from a large consumer health vocabulary study funded by the Medical Library Association and called the Ten Thousand Questions (TTQ) Project are reported on.
Abstract: The “consumer vocabulary problem” has been called a fundamental issue in health information provision. It is the problem of a mismatch between the terms used by health care professionals and those used by consumers. Studying consumer health vocabulary in order to address the problem requires that researchers understand the terms that consumers actually use. This article reports on the design and early data analysis from a large consumer health vocabulary study funded by the Medical Library Association and called the Ten Thousand Questions (TTQ) Project. TTQ is the first study funded by MLA's Donald A.B. Lindberg Research Fellowship.
TL;DR: This paper describes AZHcalthInfo's inception, funding, development, management, quality control, evolution, and future, and considers AZHealthInfo's supplemental relationship to the National Library of Medicine's MedlinePlus database and the newly released Arizona Go Local directory of health services.
Abstract: AZHealthInfo is a Web site created by the Arizona Health Sciences Library at the University of Arizona that serves as a gateway to Arizona-related health information. It has "Focus Pages" that contain lists of links, organized by health topics. Each focus page contains a narrative description of the condition, pertinent statistics, and an array of links from a wide range of providers featuring Arizona information. There are links to Arizona Go Local, MedlinePlus, and other national sites. The intent is not to recreate what MedlinePlus and others have done, hut to facilitate access to Arizona information. This paper describes AZHcalthInfo's inception, funding, development, management, quality control, evolution, and future. It also considers AZHealthInfo's supplemental relationship to the National Library of Medicine's MedlinePlus database and the newly released Arizona Go Local directory of health services. AZHealthInfo increases the ability of both consumers and public health professionals to access locally relevant information. It bridges a gap in health information by providing resources found neither in MedlinePlus nor in Arizona Go Local. Access to regionally appropriate information helps citizens to make informed decisions about their health, and thus has the potential to improve health outcomes state-wide.
TL;DR: The underlying assumptions of the term health literacy and the many challenges facing consumer health librarians in providing the services implied from the perspective of a social work information specialist in context are explored.
Abstract: The Healthy People 2010 report definition of health literacy provides a recognized framework for the work of consumer health librarians. The implications of this definition, though, could be staggering. Goals derived from this definition could include helping a patient obtain health information and information about health services while also facilitating the understanding of the information obtained. At issue is the role that consumer health librarians are to play in improving health literacy. This paper explores the underlying assumptions of the term health literacy and the many challenges facing consumer health librarians in providing the services implied from the perspective of a social work information specialist in context.
TL;DR: This article lists a variety of Web resources to aid individuals in their quest for solid data and support on post-traumatic stress disorder.
Abstract: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has become a major health issue. Modern society's ills, manifested by war, terrorist attacks, and rising individual exposure to violence, have increased the prevalence of the disorder in the population, as have natural and man-made disasters. While new research and greater media coverage have improved the public's understanding of the condition and have removed much of the stigma attached to PTSD, current and evidence-based resources can ease much of the mental anguish endured by sufferers and their families. This article lists a variety of Web resources to aid individuals in their quest for solid data and support.
TL;DR: The design of the site-navigation tools, discrete use of images, and communication elements enables users to locate relevant information quickly and to obtain assistance with their information needs, if required.
Abstract: The National Cancer Institute Web site offers high quality information on all aspects of cancer to consumers and professionals alike. The design of the site-navigation tools, discrete use of images, and communication elements-enables users to locate relevant' information quickly and to obtain assistance with their information needs, if required.
Journal Article•
TL;DR: This column provides a sample of useful Internet sites on Vodou healing traditions.
Abstract: Vodou folk medicine practices and healing arts are inextricably hound to the beliefs of the ancient Vodou religion and are expressed as attempts to achieve a balance between the physical and spiritual worlds. This column provides a sample of useful Internet sites on Vodou healing traditions.
TL;DR: This physician written and reviewed Web site provides reliable and timely information specifically written with health consumers in mind for asthma and allergy problems.
Abstract: The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) Patients and Consumers Section Web site is a bilingual (English and Spanish) resource for information related to asthma and allergy problems (including skin and food problems). With brochures, fact sheets and tips on allergy and asthma topics, in English and Spanish, as well as information geared specifically at seniors and children, the find a physician feature, and pollen alert service, this physician written and reviewed Web site provides reliable and timely information specifically written with health consumers in mind. doi:10.1300/J381v11n02_06
TL;DR: The LSUHSC-S Library has reached out beyond the limited needs of public libraries to train teachers, public health workers, medical students, and physicians to use this valuable resource.
Abstract: In 2000, the Health Sciences Library at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center/Shreveport (LSUHSC-S) accepted the challenge of meeting public health information needs in a rural setting. This endeavor began with the development of a consumer health Web site, “healthelinks,” promoted through training sessions for public librarians in the 29 parishes of northern Louisiana. Since that time, there have been many improvements to the healthelinks Web site, and the LSUHSC-S Library has reached out beyond the limited needs of public libraries to train teachers, public health workers, medical students, and physicians to use this valuable resource.
TL;DR: Healthy Me @ UMB as mentioned in this paper is a Web site for promoting quality health information and campus health and wellness resources at the University of Maryland, which was developed by the Health Sciences and Human Services Library at UMB.
Abstract: This paper describes the development of Healthy Me @ UMB , a Web site for promoting quality health information and campus health and wellness resources. The Health Sciences and Human Services Library at the University of Maryland collaborated with the University's Human Resources Office to develop and promote the resource to staff, faculty, and students on campus.
TL;DR: This review of Web sites provides opportunities for both beginning and seasoned yoga practitioners to discover yoga on the Internet and focuses on sites that provide full text or references to articles that can help one find suitable yoga teachers to assist in the exploration of the many facets of yoga.
Abstract: The ancient practices of yoga are becoming increasingly popular in the United States. This review of Web sites provides opportunities for both beginning and seasoned yoga practitioners to discover yoga on the Internet. The emphasis is on sites that provide full text or references to articles, and that can help one find suitable yoga teachers to assist in the exploration of the many facets of yoga.
TL;DR: A framework for approaching these types of projects is provided, within the context of a case study involving a Web site for patients with facial differences or craniofacial anomalies that was designed and developed in a two-month period.
Abstract: There is a paucity of information describing how Web site project planning and management concepts apply to the unique concerns of developing consumer health Web sites, and a void of resources relative to rapid cycling in health Web site development. This article provides a framework for approaching these types of projects, within the context of a case study involving a Web site for patients with facial differences or craniofacial anomalies that was designed and developed in a two-month period. The second part of this article discusses the active part of the process, including the development of the mission and vision statements, timeline, architecture, content, information needs profile and survey, prototype, marketing, and planning of the inaugural event and official release of the site.
TL;DR: This article provides general information on Gulf War Syndrome, controversy surrounding the syndrome, and challenges faced in determining whether the syndrome exists.
Abstract: The existence of Gulf War Syndrome is a topic of much controversy. Many highly respected scientists initially concluded that no single disease or unique condition affected the veterans of the Gulf War. More recent studies have concluded that there is evidence that some of the conditions suffered by many Gulf War veterans are more common among those who served in the Gulf and are, quite likely, a result of exposure to toxins, whether man-made or naturally occurring, that were present in the area of the Gulf War. This article provides general information on Gulf War Syndrome, controversy surrounding the syndrome, and challenges faced in determining whether the syndrome exists. A bibliography of selected Internet resources provides additional information on the syndrome.
Journal Article•
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TL;DR: 1 on 1 health® is the free consumer health Web site of GlaxoSmithKline that provides information on 17 health topics in English and 11 in Spanish that users can watch videos, hear people talk about living with the various conditions, and take quizzes or do activities to learn more about the topic.
Abstract: 1 on 1 health® is the free consumer health Web site of GlaxoSmithKline that provides information on 17 health topics in English and 11 in Spanish. Booklets are available in English, Spanish, and Chinese. Users can watch videos, hear people talk about living with the various conditions, and take quizzes or do activities to learn more about the topic. Although limited to a small number of topics, 1 on 1 health is a unique and excellent resource for health care consumers.
TL;DR: KidsHealth has been recognized as one of the premier sources of pediatric consumer health information available, not only for its content and readability but also for the unique presentation-organization "information portals" to age-appropriate content, in the form of a Parents Site, Kids Site, and Teens Site.
Abstract: The importance of quality child health Web sites is becoming increasingly important as the use of the Internet to answer questions about health care and lifeslyle issues is becoming more pervasive, not only among parents hut also among children and adolescents. KidsHealth has been recognized as one of the premier sources of pediatric consumer health information available, not only for its content and readability but also for the unique presentation-organization "information portals" to age-appropriate content, in the form of a Parents Site, Kids Site, and Teens Site.
TL;DR: Costs for complementary and alternative medicine for both treatment and prevention have been paid mostly out-of-pocket by consumers, but insurance providers are looking at the feasibility of including coverage of different therapies.
Abstract: Costs for complementary and alternative medicine for both treatment and prevention have been paid mostly out-of-pocket by consumers-Insurance providers are looking at the feasibility of in-. cluding coverage of different therapies as a result of customer demand as well as state regulations.
TL;DR: The content of new training for librarians and consumers, including Web resources for consumer genetics information, are discussed.
Abstract: The Human Genome Project, a multibillion dollar research initiative, was designed to map and sequence the genes in the human genome. This goal has been realized, but the future data gathered will have implications for many generations to come. Consumers trying to make sense of the often complex issues surrounding genetic information need reliable resources to assist them in understanding and evaluating this information. Librarians familiar with and aware of these resources and issues can greatly assist consumers. This paper will discuss the content of new training for librarians and consumers, including Web resources for consumer genetics information. doi:10.1300/J381v11n02_03
TL;DR: In this article, a case study involving a Web site for patients with facial differences or craniofacial anomalies that was designed and developed over a two-month period is presented.
Abstract: There is a paucity of information describing how Web site project planning and management concepts apply to the unique concerns of developing consumer health Web sites, and a void of resources relative to rapid cycling in health Web site development. This article provides a framework for approaching these types of projects, within the context of a case study involving a Web site for patients with facial differences or craniofacial anomalies that was designed and developed over a twomonth period. The first part of this article discusses the process before actual site development, including identification of opportunity, initial resources, required skill sets, team building, environmental scanning, product branding, and timeframe. doi:10.1300/J381v11n02_02
TL;DR: For each issue of Journal of Consumer Health on the Internet, the editor selects three to five health care sites containing high quality health care information on a given subject that has been subjected to rigorous evaluation criteria.
Abstract: For each issue of Journal of Consumer Health on the Internet, the editor selects three to five health care sites containing high quality health care information on a given subject. The topic for each issue is very much dependent on the whim of the editor and the consumer questions that have crossed her desk. Sites used within the column are chosen based on the editor’s personal experience and usage of the Internet. Each select site has been subjected to rigorous evaluation criteria. Evaluation criteria include: reputation of the producer=publisher of the site; bias; content and scope of information provided (including types of information provided, general overviews or specific conditions, treatments, etc.); intended audience (professionals, adults, teens, or children); currency of site updates; and viability of links. Dead links and changing URLs are a problematic reality of Internet usage. The selected sites have exhibited stability in providing long-term access to quality information. Columns begin with a brief discussion of the topic. In addition to the selected sites, other resource sites and URLs may be included in the discussion. Following the discussion, the main page of each select site will be reproduced including site title and URL for bookmark purposes. The second page will summarize producer information, content, search options, audience, and noteworthy items. JCHI Editor’s Select Sites are printed on two facing pages so they can be used as guides beside computer terminals. Web site and topic suggestions for the JCHI Editor’s Select Sites column are welcome. Send suggestions to: Nancy R. Glassman, D. Samuel Gottesman Library, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Ave., Bronx, NY 10461, or E-mail glassman@aecom.yu.edu. Journal of Consumer Health on the Internet, 13:198–207, 2009 Copyright # Taylor & Francis Group, LLC ISSN: 1539-8285 print=1539-8293 online DOI: 10.1080/15398280902897194