The Patient Channel Helps Patients, Families Better Understand Health Issues
DES MOINES, Iowa (September 13, 2011) -- Broadlawns Medical Center has added The Patient Channel to the television broadcast options in all patient rooms and waiting areas in the hospital. This 24-hour television network delivers topical, network-quality patient education programming to those who are seeking accurate and timely information. The programming is designed to increase awareness among patients and their families of medical issues, as it encourages communication with medical providers, facilitates informed decision making and promotes a sense of empowerment during times that can be emotional and difficult.
The more than 50 programs on The Patient Channel cover a wide range of common chronic diseases and patient conditions including asthma, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, smoking cessation, parenting and wellness. The Newborn Channel broadcasts baby care and postpartum programming for new parents with over 40 programs covering critical parenting topics from breastfeeding to bathing.
For patients, their relatives and friends, The Patient Channel and the Newborn Channel deliver programs through the most common medium that most people have in their home and the one with which they are comfortable. The integrated audio and visual delivery of the information enhances the communication and retention of the messaging. The channel standardizes and increases access to patient education content 24 /7, allowing the patient and family to access specifically relevant, up-to-date patient education programming exactly at the time it is needed. The programs are available in English and Spanish languages.
"The Patient Channel represents much more than just another viewing option for patients and family or friends," stated Vincent Mandracchia, MD, MHA, chief medical officer of Broadlawns Medical Center. "This programming enables patients to understand and improve their personal health as it supports treatment compliance and improves care management. Specific programs can complement other information in order to maximize the patient's understanding and retention."
The educational content on The Patient Channel is controlled by independent advisory boards consisting of experts in medicine, patient care, education and ethics, whose objective is to ensure the accuracy and appropriateness of programming. While the TV channel is distributed by Interactivation Health Networks, LLC, the boards review all content prior to airing and identify new opportunities for topics that are contemporary and of high-interest to the general public.
“Programming on the channel empowers patients to take a more active role in their own care," said Dave Ross, COO of Interactivation Health Networks, LLC. “Real patients and their doctors share their stories to help others understand not just the ‘what’ and ‘why’ of a medical condition, but also ‘how’ they can deal with it in a positive manner.”
More information about The Patient Channel is available at http://www.thepatientchannel.com.
Broadlawns Medical Center first opened its doors as a hospital to the residents of Polk County on April 13, 1924. Over the years, Broadlawns has adapted to the changing demands of public health care, yet remained true to its mission of offering quality health services to all Polk County residents and training tomorrow’s health care professionals. Today Broadlawns Medical Center is composed of:
- An acute care community hospital serving medical, surgical, mental health and primary care needs
- A 60-member physician practice overseeing numerous specialty clinics and outpatient services
- A family medicine residency program that graduates physician leaders who today serve in 22 of Iowa’s 99 counties
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