Resources: January 2012

Saara Taylor

Pneumococcal disease

The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases in July announced a new resource to help health professionals educate patients and prevent pneumococcal disease. Online at www.adultvaccination.org/pneumococcaltoolkit, the resource includes ready-to-use newsletter templates, fact sheets, emails, waiting room posters and other materials.

Environment

The Environmental Protection Agency launched a new website in October to help protect wetlands. The tool will make it easier for residents of New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands to report suspected violations of federal laws that protect beneficial wetlands. For more information, visit www.epa.gov/region02/water/wetlands/violations.html.

Autism

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in September released Healthcare 411, a podcast that equips parents and caregivers of children with autism with information about various treatment options. To access the podcast or view the transcript, visit http://healthcare411.ahrq.gov/radiocastseg.aspx?id=1212&type=seg.

Chronic disease

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in August published new Spanish-language pamphlets to help consumers make decisions and find treatment options for a range of illnesses, including heart disease and cancer. The free guides are available at www.effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov/index.cfm/informacion-en-espanol/.

Nutrition

Omnigraphics in August added a new addition to its health reference series. “Diet and Nutrition Sourcebook: Fourth Edition,” provides updated information on nutrition, diet and health for diverse populations. The resource includes information about the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and explains the MyPlate food guide. For more information or to order a copy, visit www.omnigraphics.com.

Physician reviews

RepuChek in October released Review Buildr, an online system that helps physicians improve their online rankings and encourage patients to share their experiences through online reviews. For more information, visit http://repuchek.com.