In 1987, I made a statement describing how important self-help communities are in assisting their members with their healthcare problems, hardships and recovery. Healthcare consumers are searching for experiential knowledge to better understand their health conditions and to complement information provided by their doctor. Entry to the communities is protected by a login and password, ensuring security. All community participants may speak freely about their personal experiences, empowering them to take charge of their health.
Members know that all discussions are confidential within the community.
Future expectations are to reach 60 communities early in 1999. Their top priority is responding to their community members' needs. Community Leaders are also responsible for recruiting chat hosts, monitoring message boards and chat sessions, suggesting books for their members and recommending content for the site. Members, too, are asked to take responsibility for the success of their communities. Suggestions are reviewed and considered for future implementation.