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Health information support provided by professional associations in Canada.

Authors :
Chatterley, Trish
Storie, Dale
Chambers, Thane
Buckingham, Jeanette
Shiri, Ali
Dorgan, Marlene
Source :
Health Information & Libraries Journal; Sep2012, Vol. 29 Issue 3, p233-241, 9p, 2 Charts
Publication Year :
2012

Abstract

Background Healthcare practitioners in Alberta and across Canada have varying levels of access to information resources depending on their institutional and professional affiliations, yet access to current health information is critical for all. Objectives To determine what information resources and services are provided by Albertan and Canadian professional health associations to their members. Methods Representatives of professional colleges and associations were interviewed regarding information resources and services offered to members and perceptions of their members' information needs. Results National-level associations are more likely to provide resources than provincial ones. There is a clear distinction between colleges and associations in terms of information offered: colleges provide regulatory information, while associations are responsible for provision of clinical information resources. Only half of the associations interviewed provide members with access to licensed databases, with cost being a major barrier. Conclusions There is considerable variation in the number of electronic resources and the levels of information support provided by professional health associations in Alberta and Canada. Access and usage vary among the health professions. National licensing of resources or creation of a portal linking to freely available alternatives are potential options for increasing access and awareness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
14711834
Volume :
29
Issue :
3
Database :
Complementary Index
Journal :
Health Information & Libraries Journal
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
79309041
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1471-1842.2012.00993.x