There's a wealth of health information waiting for anyone who wants to seek it out. If you or someone you know wants to learn more about a general topic or a specific condition, there are many resources at your disposal. All you have to supply is the desire to learn. Many HMOs also have health educators, as well as support groups, lectures and classes, ranging from Lamaze sessions for expectant parents to programs for smokers who want to quit. If your HMO doesn't offer a resource center, check with a local hospital to see if it has a library that patients and interested public can use.
Many hospitals also offer classes, seminars and support groups.
Your county medical society can direct you when other sources fail. Both public and university libraries have health sections. Some libraries also have computer databases, which can help you track down medical information. The National Network of Libraries of Medicine can help you find a medical library in your area. The Planetree Health Resource Centers is an outstanding network of consumer health libraries.