A rapid evidence-based service by librarians provided information to answer primary care clinical questions.

BACKGROUND

A librarian consultation service was offered to 88 primary care clinicians during office hours. This included a streamlined evidence-based process to answer questions in fewer than 20 min. This included a contact centre accessed through a Web-based platform and using hand-held devices and computers with Web access. Librarians were given technical training in evidence-based medicine, including how to summarise evidence.

OBJECTIVES

To describe the process and lessons learned from developing and operating a rapid response librarian consultation service for primary care clinicians.

METHODS

Evaluation included librarian interviews and a clinician exit satisfaction survey.

RESULTS

Clinicians were positive about its impact on their clinical practice and decision making. The project revealed some important 'lessons learned' in the clinical use of hand-held devices, knowledge translation and training for clinicians and librarians.

CONCLUSIONS

The Just-in-Time Librarian Consultation Service showed that it was possible to provide evidence-based answers to clinical questions in 15 min or less. The project overcame a number of barriers using innovative solutions. There are many opportunities to build on this experience for future joint projects of librarians and healthcare providers.