Current Topic:
Providing Patient Information – Part 2 – Assessing the quality of patient information
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Abstract
This second of two modules on patient information focuses on the quality of the information we give to patients. Good information provision needs to be accessible, timely, reliable and accurate. Information can help patients and carers with a variety of different needs, from information to support decision-making (clinical information), to information to help with living with cancer (supportive information).
While there is a wealth of cancer related information available, the quality can vary enormously. So how can we assess the quality of the information we provide? Measuring the quality of information is far from straightforward as there is no one evaluation instrument able to assess the different components of information resources.
A diverse range of information is produced in many different formats by different organisations. For example, health professionals, non-statutory organisations and pharmaceutical companies. The growth of information on the Internet in particular, has been phenomenal. In addition to assessing the quality of the information we give to patients, we also have a role in helping patients and carers understand how they can access and assess information for themselves.
A number of different factors, including the consent process and risk management schemes, are influencing how information is produced in the UK. The Department of Health has recognised a need to improve the general quality of health and social care information available to patients and the public through the development of an information accreditation scheme.
This module will examine the different components of health information that need to be assessed and provide an overview of some of the tools that can be used to evaluate their quality. It will help you to identify what component you want to evaluate and the best tool to help you achieve this.
