Needs assessment and resource identification.

Given the constraints of the current healthcare system, the mandate for patient education is clear - a time-efficient and cost-effective approach. This article explores the concept of conducting a needs assessment as a means of clearly and efficiently delineating learning needs and learner characteristics. Tools for collecting and documenting pertinent patient data should be used to consolidate information and should be accessible to all members of the healthcare team, avoiding costly duplication of effort. Other valuable resources include patient education exchange groups, which can be composed of representatives from all interested healthcare organizations in a designated area, and the identification and use of free or low-cost teaching tools.