Consumer health information demand and delivery: implications for libraries

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Consumer Health Information Science

Background:

• Growing consumer demand for self-health management resources.
• Managed care and health providers view consumer health information as key to patient satisfaction and cost reduction.
• Significant expansion and diversification of consumer health information sources since 1979.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess preliminary consumer health information demand and delivery.
• To identify patterns in consumer interest and information supply.
• To explore challenges faced by consumers seeking health information.

Main Methods:

• Preliminary assessment of consumer health information demand and delivery.
• Analysis of consumer interest patterns and information supply sources.
• Identification of barriers in accessing and utilizing health information.

Main Results:

• Consumers exhibit broad interests and specific needs for health information.
• A wide variety of information sources exist, but accessibility and usability can be problematic.
• Libraries are identified as potential key providers and interpreters of health information.

Conclusions:

• Libraries can play a vital role in enhancing consumer access to and understanding of health information.
• Addressing challenges in health information delivery is crucial for empowering consumers.
• Further research is needed for a comprehensive understanding of consumer health information dynamics.