You are currently browsing the category archive for the 'HEALTH SOURCE' category.
Ventura County Star reports that cancer rates have been dropping, most likely due to early diagnosis thanks to online sites that provide valuable information.
Cancer Survivor’s Network
This network was developed by the American Cancer Society. The site allows users to email, private chat, and look for other members who are similar to themselves. It fosters a supportive and educational environment for cancer patients. There are stories told by patients available in audio as well as in transcript form. Of noteworthy is the site’s “Expression Gallery” that lets members upload quotes, pictures, stories, etc that represents the patient’s experience or feelings as they battle cancer. The site can also be translated into “espanol” for spanish-speaking users, a feature that is lacking in most communities online.
Cancer Care
Cancer Care is a free, non-profit organization that offers support and information to cancer patients. The site offers information for patients, patient families and their caregivers. The site also features online support groups with oncology specialists who answer questions.
American Cancer Society
This site offers an online discussion board and a wide variety of information ranging from treatment decision tools to cancer statistics. The site also features the ability to search for clinical trials looking for patients as well as the ability to search for support groups based on zipcode.
OncoLink
OncoLink was developed by the University of Pennsylvania’s Abramson Cancer Center. While the site lacks any sort of social-networking feature, it does offer patients the opportunity to ask questions to physicians who specialize in different cancers. It is a great tool for those who are too afraid to ask about their condition in person or do not have access to a specialized physician. Another great feature is the OncoLink gallery that highlights art work drawn by cancer patients.
Title: Examination
By: Mark Barmak Shetabi (OncoLink)
The American Board of Internal Medicine has launched a website that allows patients as well as healthcare employees to verify if their doctor is certified. The site also allows physicians to check their certification status, maintain certification status, and improve their performance practice. Search may be based on name, certification, or social security number. Among features of the site includes (source: ABIM press release):
- Physicians have a dedicated “Physician Login” tool, allowing registered users fast access to their individual home page detailing where they are in the Certification and Maintenance of Certification process. In addition, they have a new “search by specialty” feature, providing relevant links for their area of practice.
- Consumers can find out if their physician is certified and learn how board certification and Maintenance of Certification impact patient care.
- Health systems, hospitals and policy makers can find information on the importance of board certification, and how to work with ABIM to engage physicians in quality improvement.
Recent Comments