The role of a telephone helpline in provision of patient information
Angela Collett Helpline manager, Brain and Spine Foundation, London
Wendy Kent Helpline information officer, Brain and Spine Foundation, London
Sharon Swain Helpline and project officer, Brain and Spine Foundation, London
Aim To explore why individuals contacted a telephone helpline specialising in neurological conditions and their level of satisfaction with the service.
Method Callers 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 reasons for contacting the helpline were to obtain medical information or request an information booklet. Health professionals and the internet were the other main sources of information and support.
Conclusion A telephone helpline is important 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.
Nursing Standard.
20, 32, 41-44.
doi: 10.7748/ns2006.04.20.32.41.c4125
Correspondence
angela.collett@brainandspine.org.uk
Peer review
This article has been subject to double blind peer review
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