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The role of a telephone helpline in provision of patient information
09 May 2006
Written by Angela Collett, Wendy Kent and Sharon Swain
Nursing Standard, 20, 32, 41-44.
ABSTRACT ONLY
Aim: To explore why individuals contacted a telephone helpline specialising in neurological conditions and their level of satisfaction with the services.
Method: Callers to the helpline were asked to complete a confidential postal questionnaire.
Results: The majority of callers found the helpline useful and all respondents would use the service again. The main reason for contacting the helpline were to obtain medical information or request an information booklet. Health professionals and the internet were the other main source of information and support.
Conclusion: A telephone helpline provides an important role in the provision of information and support on neurological conditions. Through close collaboration, the NHS and voluntary organisations can fulfil many of the needs of patients with complex medical conditions.
The full article can be found on the Nursing Standard website.
