A multifaceted educational approach to increasing awareness and use of physician data query (PDQ).
BACKGROUND
PDQ is a database developed by the National Cancer Institute that provides state-of-the-art information about cancer. A study was conducted to raise healthcare professionals' and patients'/families' awareness and use of PDQ's patient information file (PIF).


METHODS
Educational presentations and poster displays were presented for health care staff to inform them of PDQ/PIF's attributes and how to access it. To expand awareness among patients and families, poster displays were presented in high-traffic areas; PDQ/PIF statements were redesigned and displayed in patient information racks.


RESULTS
Among health care professionals, a 54% increase was observed in awareness of the PIF. A ninefold increase in the number of PDQ/PIF statements distributed to patients/families was reported.


CONCLUSIONS
To maintain a level of awareness among health care professionals, a consistent educational strategy should be implemented. The number of PDQ/PIF statements distributed to patients and families increased, especially those redesigned for visual appeal.
Mayo Clinic Cancer Center, Mayo Clinic, Cancer Education Program, Rochester, MN 55905, USA. thiemann.kay@mayo.edu
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Thiemann
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Frost
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Thompson
D001364:Awareness; D016208:Databases, Factual / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006282:Health Personnel; D006801:Humans; D007255:Information Services; D009369:Neoplasms; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D014481:United States