It says it also wants to prove to be a useful resource for writers and journalists, as this could improve the quality and accuracy of reporting on medical topics by the mainstream media. In addition, it hopes that over time it could act as a stimulus for patients with a particular disease to get together, form self-help groups, and help each other cope with their diseases. More knowledge could also prevent medical fraud and quackery. Ultimately we hope that well-informed patients will demand the best treatment available, and this will act as an incentive for doctors to update their skills and for hospitals to improve their facilities, adds Dr Malpani. The air-conditioned reading room can seat up to 25.
Computerised information allows for speedy searches for pinpointing information needed.
Photocopying is charged at Rs1 per page, reasonable by local standards. Once a query is sent in, the confidential reply comes on about 50-100 pages or on floppy in seven days, by registered post. People in India often don t bother to take a second or third opinion on even major health issues. They take everything lying down, and don t bother to research their condition, says Dr Suraliwala. HELP is also trying to get doctors to prescribe information .