How do we disseminate information?
How do we inform new/existing patients about the Support Group?
Each month two members of the Support Group Committee set up an information table – the “Clinic Table” – during a Thursday afternoon clinic at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh. The aim is to address both of these questions.
Frequently new people come – particularly carers – knowing very little about bronchiectasis. Sometimes even after seeing the doctor they have questions that they wish they had asked, during the consultation. We can’t offer medical advice – but we can point to some excellent material that provides most if not all the answers. We’ve even heard people say …”We’ve learned more in the last few minutes talking to you that in the last few years”.
One of the key documents is the Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland (CHSS) booklet “Living with Bronchiectasis” – just go to the “Bronchiectasis Booklet” link on this page. And of course we also refer to our own website here which contains a range of information on the condition. But there is also a huge range of other material on specific issues – ranging from sources of advice on benefits through to things like travel insurance, respite care etc.
We can make up to 5 new contacts every clinic table. Where patients agree we take name and address and e-mail address and agree to keep them informed about our meetings and also send copies of our newsletters. No pressure on this – but many do give their details because there is a demand for information, particularly in relation to living with the condition.
When you are in the waiting room – and the clinic table is there – come and have a word with us. No obligation – the only risk is gaining a better understanding of bronchiectasis – and the support available.
