Priority areas

These case studies illustrate how health libraries across the capital are addressing the key issues identified by the Darzi London review.

Staying healthy

Business Case for Prevention
The costs of preventable ill health are significant. Islington PCT library helped Public Health strategists research where investment is most likely to reduce health inequalities and yield a good return. These programmes were approved and monies allocated. 

Healthy living
A mental health support group invited HealthInform to run several sessions. The health information officer provided good quality, reliable information on healthy eating, sexual health and hygiene, and led discussions about applying this information to daily life.

Mental Health

Mental Health Services for Irish Residents
Further resources are being allocated to mental health services for Irish residents of Islington following a literature review requested by the Public Health Department. The work will inform future service planning, recognizing the needs of the community.

Long-term conditions

CHESS for heart disease research project
Input from Archway Healthcare Library includes a monthly digest of heart health news and research, and searching and summarising the evidence to inform responses to the CHESS “Ask the expert” service.       

End of life care

Improving end of life care
The Acute strategy and commissioning directorate in Islington requested evidence on best practice in end of life care. This is being used to inform a new strategy and support service redesign.

Stroke services

Information for stroke patients
A simply written leaflet describes the support and care available to stroke patients, together with information about the ward routines. The Library manager at UHL works with the PALS Manager to improve the patient experience.

Neurological conditions A-Z
Patient support information website from the Institute of Neurology and the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery. An extensive and unique information resource for patients, carers and others; covering more than 260 conditions.