Potential of Librarians in Patients Accepting Their Chronic Disease and Improving Quality of Life : Based on Personal Experience

Abstract

“Patients with refractory disease”, who suffer from chronic diseases and conditions, often affected by incurable diseases or those of unknown cause, are obliged to struggle with illness in their prolonged period of life under distressing physical pain and mental anxiousness. This article illustrates the benefits of information literacy supported by librarians, which enables patients with refractory disease to assess correct and trustworthy medical information by themselves. Additionally, I would like to introduce “Information Prescription”, currently attracting attention in Europe and the U.S.A., which is a selection of content for a specific individual generated in collaboration with doctors and specialized medical librarians.