> Resources and Publications > PHC RIS infonet > October 2007 > From CareSearch to CareSearch palliative care knowledge network

From CareSearch to CareSearch palliative care knowledge network

Finding relevant and high quality information can be difficult and frustrating for anybody. But when a person has a life limiting illness the need for reliable and easily accessible information becomes even more important. The CareSearch website <www.caresearch.com.au> has been designed to provide the health community and the general public with up to date information and links to quality resources in palliative care. In March new materials produced specifically for patients, carers and GPs were released. These resources reflect the significant role that primary care and family caregivers have in caring for palliative patients.

As part of the Australian Palliative Care Knowledge Network project a major re-development of CareSearch has started. In May 2008 the website will evolve to become CareSearch palliative care knowledge network. This will be a new look website containing all the existing material from the CareSearch website plus new content and functions. Resources for other health professional groups and for specific patient populations will be developed. In addition there will be improvements to core functions such as the Research Data Management System and search functions.

CareSearch will continue to provide access to evidence and research. There will be an increasing emphasis on how knowledge is presented and communicated to highlight end user benefits. In palliative care where multidisciplinary care is fundamental to optimal care, CareSearch can assist by:

• bringing together the relevant information and resources from contributing disciplines
• linking members of a community, whether clinicians or consumers, in innovative ways to improve outcomes
• providing mechanisms and tools to assist in the development and use of evidence

You can help us by promoting the site or by downloading resources about the project. We'd also welcome any feedback and ideas.

Jennifer Tieman
Director, Australian Knowledge Network in palliative care
P: 08 8275 2816
E: jennifer.tieman@flinders.edu.au
W: www.caresearch.com.au