Health Information Center

The Health Information Center is located in the hospital’s main lobby, just down from the cafeteria. We give patients, family members and the community information on the latest health news and research on diseases or illnesses.

Come and visit our health library of books, digital, and print resources. We’ll help you with research on health conditions — all free of charge. We also offer free printing, scanning, and faxing.

Become a Member

The Health Information Center offers library membership for free. To apply, please complete the Membership Registration Form below or visit the library to complete a paper form. Membership allows you to check out up to 3 books at a time.

Membership benefits include:

• Borrowing materials
• Quarterly newsletter

Confidentiality Statement

Except for statistical data, all personal information contained on this application is considered confidential and will not be disclosed, shared, sold or otherwise distributed unless by individual court order.

Disclaimer

This information is provided by a medical librarian, not a health care professional. It is not to be taken as medical advice. If interpretation is needed, individuals should consult a physician or other health care professional.

To apply, please complete the Membership Application

Borrow Materials

Health Information Center Members may borrow books from our collection for two weeks. Non-members are welcome to copy sections of the books.

To check out materials, please bring the item to any staff member at the information desk. All materials are due back in two weeks from the date of check out. Items may be renewed over the phone.

Take a Class

Come to the Health Information Center to learn how to search the Internet for the best health information. We are also able to teach how to find reliable health information to community groups.

For a complete list of classes and a schedule of date and times or to schedule a class or orientation, please email Martha Earl or call 865-305-6616.

Request a Search

Patients and the community can request health information, free of charge. Fill out the form below and our experienced medical librarians will do the search for you. The information will then be mailed to an address you provide. This service provides information on health and medical topics like:

• Symptoms and treatment of disease
• Preventive medicine
• Medical tests
• Internet resources
• Support groups and local community resources

We provide information on your questions confidentially by mail or email.

• In addition to the topics above, we can help you answer questions like:
• What kinds of foods can I eat now that I have diabetes?
• My doctor says I have fibromyalgia. What does that mean?
• How do I find a doctor at the UT Medical Center?
• What is the latest treatment for my cancer?

All information is sent out as quickly as possible. To start your search, please call the number above or fill out this form.

Browse the Collection

The Health Information Center collection reflects the needs of patients, their family members, and the public. The collection focuses on the health concerns of our Tennessee community.

The Health Information Center collection includes recent, reliable health information on diseases related to the Centers of Excellence, other prevalent diseases, and general consumer health and wellness information.

Books

The Health Information Center’s collection includes about 300 books. Search for books using the online catalog or ask us for help. We would be glad to assist you.

Databases

The Health Information Center offers a variety of user friendly databases. Come in and use one of our computers to find the most current and reliable health information. We’re happy to show you how to get started searching.

Other Collections

In addition to the Health Information Center collection, the Preston Medical Library collection provides local health professionals access to over 10,000 journals online, 350 eBooks and over 500 individual print journal titles.

Use Copiers & Computers

The Health Information Center has computers with high speed internet access available for all patients, family members, and the community. The staff can provide orientation and education in the use of the Internet, as well as our electronic databases and other resources.

Copy Services

There is a self-service printer/copier in the library. This machine can also fax and scan to email. Use of the machine is free. If you need help, one of the librarians will be happy to assist you.

Wireless Access

The Health Information Center has wireless access to the Internet using your own mobile computing device.