Creating Patient Education Resources

How can you support access for your patients and their families or support persons?

• Always share the web address (URL), not the PDF or .pdf link. Links that end in pdf are subject to change any time the item is updated, resulting in a 404-Error message. 
  • The web address always ends in the pamphlet print code number (not .pdf). For example:
    • Use: https://www.nshealth.ca/patient-education-resources/0006
    • Don't use: https://www.nshealth.ca/sites/default/files/documents/0006-2024.10.03.pdf 
  • Never send the PDF version of a pamphlet to a patient; send the link instead. Why? Since pamphlets are updated frequently, sending the link ensures the reader is always viewing the most recent version of the item. 
• Know the URLs of the pamphlets you use regularly with patients, their families, and support persons. These can be found here: https://www.nshealth.ca/patient-education-resource
• Keep a stock of print copies on hand. Many people still prefer to receive hardcopy patient education resources. 
  • Recycle out-of-date print copies to prevent the spread of misinformation.
• Share the links to your most frequently used pamphlets on your:
  • Nova Scotia Health clinic, program, or service page: https://www.nshealth.ca/clinics-programs-and-services
  • Nova Scotia Health Library Services subject guide