Information leaflets in the dermatology out-patient waiting area.
Patients' attitudes to the supply and quality of information provided about their condition were examined by questionnaire before (n = 852) and after exposure to an information leaflet campaign (n = 560) in the dermatology out-patient waiting area. A high expectation of this service was demonstrated, particularly from patients under 60 years of age with chronic diseases. A variety of information sources, other than doctors, were identified which could be improved (video-systems, specialist nurses, leaflets, posters). The campaign significantly increased the percentage of patients who derived information from the leaflet source (5.6-18.8%, P < 0.001) and it reduced a demand for leaflets (16.4-9.1%, P < 0.001). However, the campaign did not alter patients' perceived need to spend more time with a dermatologist. In order to achieve a greater impact on patient satisfaction, a combination of information sources in the out-patient department should be targeted at young adults with chronic diseases.
Harland
C C
CC
Department of Dermatology, University Hospital, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, U.K.
MadeleY
R J
RJ
Millard
L G
LG
D003880:Dermatology; D006748:Hospital Departments; D006801:Humans; D007255:Information Services; D010174:Pamphlets; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000379:methods*; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000628:therapy*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires