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Client satisfaction with the New Zealand National Poisons Information Service
1Department of Prevention and Social Medicine, Dunedin School of Medicine, Otago Medical School, New Zealand.
Veterinary and Human Toxicology
|June 4, 1998
Summary
The New Zealand National Poisons and Hazardous Chemicals Information Centre (NPC) survey shows high user satisfaction. The NPC provides valuable information, potentially saving NZ health services up to $1.3 million annually.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Public Health
- Health Services Research
Background:
- The New Zealand National Poisons and Hazardous Chemicals Information Centre (NPC) provides critical information on poisons and hazardous chemicals.
- Assessing user satisfaction and knowledge is essential for evaluating the effectiveness of public health services.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate public satisfaction with the NPC.
- To determine if the NPC meets the needs of its users.
- To assess the NPC's impact on public health service utilization and cost savings.
Main Methods:
- A telephone survey was conducted with a random sample of NPC callers.
- The sample included 354 members of the general public and 79 health professionals.
- A 79% response rate was achieved, though Maori and Pacific Island populations were under-represented.
Main Results:
- 91% of respondents found the information provided by the NPC very useful.
- Without the NPC, 81% of the public would seek medical advice, and 59% would visit a medical facility.
- The NPC is estimated to save New Zealand health services up to NZ$1.3 million annually.
Conclusions:
- The NPC is effectively meeting the needs of its current users.
- There is a need for increased public awareness and improved accessibility, particularly for Maori and Pacific Island populations.
- The NPC plays a significant role in reducing the burden on public health facilities and associated costs.