Greenock Central Library event supports people to manage their own healthcare
A drop-in event is being held to tell people all about how Inverclyde Council’s libraries service can support them with their healthcare.
The libraries are supporting Realistic Medicine, the personalised approach to care adopted by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) and supported by the Scottish Government. Through Realistic Medicine, patients are empowered to share decision making with health care teams by explaining what matters most to them, as well as asking questions about their care. Patients have an active part in managing their conditions to achieve the outcomes that matter to them.
Alongside partners including Alzheimer Scotland; Inverclyde Community Link Workers; SAMH; Your Voice; Chest, Heart & Stroke Scotland; and Inverclyde HSCP, libraries aim to support people to self-manage, maintain and improve their health and wellbeing.
A public information drop-in event has been organised for Wednesday, October 9 where people can find out more about how the libraries’ service and some of their partners, can help them help themselves.
Councillor Jim Clocherty, convener of education and communities, said: “Our libraries are at the heart of our communities and offer so much more than books.
“They are hubs where people can enjoy a warm space in the winter, there are groups for all ages and they can support people with their health and wellbeing.
“There are a lot of tools out there for people to look after their own health conditions. People who are actively involved in their own care tend to have better outcomes which is good news for them and their loved ones.
“I would urge people who think they or someone they know might benefit from this to go along to the open day or pop into the library to speak to staff.”
A new app called Being a partner in my care is one of the tools created as part of the Realistic Medicine approach by the NHSGGC. Inverclyde Libraries can enable PC and internet access, and trained library staff can support people to navigate the app effectively.
The app has a number of videos explaining what Realistic Medicine is and how it can help, a form to fill out with your information to share with healthcare professionals involved in your care, advice on questions to ask as well as a wealth of information on how to manage your care and look after your mental and emotional wellbeing.
Dr Malcom Watson, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Realistic Medicine Champion explained: "We want everyone to understand that their voice truly matters when it comes to their health. The Realistic Medicine approach and the 'Being a partner in my care' app are here to empower locals with the information they need to make informed decisions alongside their health professional.
"It's important for people to know that it's perfectly okay to ask questions. This session will show people how to use the app as a valuable tool to support them in this process and help them take greater control of their health. We also recognise that some community members need digital support, and we are grateful to the libraries for their dedication in training and engaging with us to assist their local community."
The drop-in event is at Greenock Central Library on Wednesday October 9 between 10.30am and 12.30pm.
Library staff will showcase the Realistic Medicine tools on offer and, with representatives from the Realistic Medicine team and local partners, will also provide the opportunity to discover the many health and wellbeing services and resources available to support self-management in Inverclyde. Screenings of a Realistic Medicine information video will take place at 11am and 12noon. All are welcome.
For more information contact PGD@inverclyde.gov.uk or call 01475 712323.