Free
HELP is available for your health questions
When you need to find the most accurate information
about health issues, concerns, illness prevention, or wellness, call,
fax, e-mail, or stop by the Ruth York Morgan Health Education Learning
Place (HELP) at The Washington Hospital.
Open since March on the hospitalÕs third floor, HELP is a unique resourceÑoffering
publications, videos, Web-based information, and more--made possible
by a generous donation from James and Nancy Cameron of Washington, in
memory of NancyÕs mother Ruth York Morgan.
HELP is free to all and open six days a week to provide access to an
extensive range of resources intended to supplement physiciansÕ medical
advice. HELPÕs on-site staff, led by a registered nurse, provide personalized,
confidential interaction and assistance.
The center is open Monday and Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Tuesday,
Wednesday, and Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday, noon to 4
p.m. No appointment is necessary and walk-ins are encouraged. Call 724-250-4310.
Q&A
Kathie Allen, a registered nurse, is the coordinator of the Ruth York
Morgan Health Education Learning Place (HELP) at The Washington Hospital.
Q What services are offered at HELP?
Visitors have access to a wide variety of publications, videos, and
more, with information available on specific diseases, chronic conditions,
treatments, drugs, and a broad array of health-related topics. A computer
enables them to view health information on the Web, and HealthAnswers,
a health and information database. Computers at the center are wheelchair
accessible and can accommodate the visually-impaired with a text-to-speech
function. ThereÕs also a private reading room, a play area for children,
and much more.
Q With so much health information available today, why use HELP?
ThereÕs a lot of information out there, but thereÕs always a huge question
of credibility. At HELP, we have a vast amount of information thatÕs
extremely credible, medically sound, and continually updated. And I
often add value by explaining or interpreting information that may be
unclear. People really appreciate that. YouÕd have to search pretty
far and wide to find anything even close to the quality we offer.
Q Are todayÕs consumers more health-aware? Yes, patients of all ages
are more aware of health issues than ever before. Through our diverse
collection of information resources and timely, individualized services,
we can help them become active participants in their health and medical
care, and make informed decisions regarding their health and medical
management.
Q WhatÕs the best way for people to reach you? Anyone may walk into
the center on the hospitalÕs third floor. I can also be reached by phone
(724-250-4310), fax (724-250-4303), e-mail (kallen@washingtonhospital.org),
or on the hospitalÕs Web site at www.washingtonhospital.org. And I welcome
everyone.
