Health promotion by setting up medical and health information services in public libraries: A qualitative approach

Document Type : Original article

Authors

1 PhD Student of Knowledge and Information Science, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

2 Associate Professor, Department of Knowledge and Information Science, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Background and Aim: The aim of the present study was to provide a model for medical and health information in public libraries for citizens.
Materials and Methods: The methodology was qualitative using grounded theory to extract analytical and comprehensive model. The population consisted of 18 specialists and officials in the field of Health and Public libraries selected using purposive sampling. The research tools were semi-structured interviews. To ensure the validity and reliability of qualitative data, measures with standards of scientific rigor were used. The interviews were analyzed using open coding, axial, and selective methods. The main issues were identified, and so were causal conditions, grounded, interferer, strategies, and consequences.
Results: The main features of both the manufacturer and distributor of health information were found as the proposed model: high potentials and abilities in the Ministry of Health like specialists in Health area, access to health information, the skills of trained librarians, and the general audience of public libraries. Strategies were establishing agreement between the two organizations, planning programs, and promoting interactive atmosphere, which can lead to promotion of health and health literacy individuals’ access to more reliable and up to date resources.
Conclusion: Since users need to have access to reliable information, it seems necessary to provide a local model for this purpose. Using this model to produce and distribute medical and health information resources can be helpful to the public.

Keywords

References

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The Scientific Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine
Volume 5, Issue 2
July and August 2016
Pages 9-19

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History

  • Receive Date: 30 August 2015
  • Revise Date: 21 October 2015
  • Accept Date: 01 December 2015
  • First Publish Date: 21 June 2016

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