Community Health Outreach: Health Kiosks Increase Access

Over twelve months, Multnomah County Library will pilot the use of health information kiosks in select branches. Kiosks will allow access to the online health portal products used by local health clinics that serve the local homeless population, those transitioning out of homelessness and people with very low income. Kiosks will also allow access to select authoritative health information sites, such as MedlinePlus, the Office of Dietary Supplements and Healtfinder.gov.The goal is to improve health outcomes by facilitating access to health information resources and communication between patients and providers. The objectives are to increase awareness of online health portals, increase awareness of authoritative online health information resources and teach patrons how to access these resources from their own mobile devices. iPad kiosks will be installed at two library locations. Signage will be used to attract patrons to the kiosks and training material will be developed and provided at the kiosks and by staff. Staff will be trained on use of the kiosks and the online resources provided.