Information Rx: Evaluation of a new informatics tool for physicians, patients, and libraries

Area of Science:

• Medical Informatics
• Health Communication
• Patient Education

Background:

• Physicians often lack tools to direct patients to credible online health resources.
• Patients frequently conduct poor-quality internet searches for health information.
• Effective patient education is crucial for managing health conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the implementation and impact of the Information Prescription (Information Rx) Program.
• To assess the potential of Information Rx to enhance patient education and physician-patient communication.
• To explore physician and patient perspectives on using information prescriptions.

Main Methods:

• Two comprehensive evaluation studies of the Information Rx Program (2002-05).
• Physicians used Information Prescription pads to direct patients to MedlinePlus.
• Data collected from physician and patient perspectives on program use and outcomes.

Main Results:

• Physicians perceived Information Rx as an added clinical service enhancing patient education and communication.
• The program may improve physician-patient communication and encourage patient information seeking.
• Patients reported increased comfort with online health seeking and discussing findings with doctors.

Conclusions:

• Information Prescription fosters dialogue between providers and patients.
• The program helps patients utilize the internet more effectively for health information.
• Information Rx positively impacts patient education and access to high-quality online health data.