The Medical Library Association Guide to Complementary and Alternative Medicine Information: Authoritative, Patient-Friendly Print and Electronic Resources

In this practical, readable guide, consumer health reference expert Michele Spatz gives you an understanding of the psychology of those seeking medical information and the skills necessary to respond usefully and appropriately.

Spatz outlines the most common inquiries and behaviours of health information searches and the most useful go-to resources. Sample librarian-patron interactions in every chapter give you useful strategies and scripts. Dozens of templates and forms and tips on everything-from setting up the reference desk to encourage confidential inquiries to using body language to signal your availability-will help you create a welcoming, empowering atmosphere in your library.

This new consumer-focused handy reference volume will give your staff a reliable, authoritative resource to suggest when patrons come to you with health questions.

Each entry provides a clear, easy-to-understand explanation of medical conditions and treatment as well as critical call-out facts to support better understanding. In addition, your patrons can use the handy "Ask the Expert" information to find additional, authoritative information and answers to their specific questions. They'll also discover tips, checklists for questions to ask healthcare professionals, charts, and other easy-access information to address their specific concerns and provide important background Information as they determine the next appropriate steps for their care.