Patients often feel uncertain and unable to cope with their illness and its symptoms. Using simple language and clear illustrations, PocketDoktor® provides patients with the information they need as well as valuable hints and tips. The description of the facts and the corresponding illustrations are rendered accessible in images and words. A greater understanding of the illness helps to allay patient fears and also significantly increases satisfaction levels. As a result, compliance is improved. The result: a reduced recurrence rate, the number of hospitalisations due to failure to follow medical instructions declines. With PocketDoktor® avoidable costs for health insurance funds are lowered and patients recover more quickly. The PocketDoktor® books can be customised and printed with the respective clinic’s or practice’s contact data. This enhances patient trust and allows the attending doctor to be contacted simply and quickly should the patient have any questions or experience new problems.

During a pilot study at Basel University Hospital more than 100 patients were asked whether they found the PocketDoktor® books useful. The results were very positive on evaluation of the questionnaires. The medical and nursing staff also assessed the books as very positive. Patients felt they had a better understanding and were very satisfied with the information and concept of the books (the detailed results of the pilot study can be found on our website).

Today, patients generally do not receive information on their illness. Even if brochures are available they are often not readily understandable. Either the explanations are too short or too rambling and formulated in a manner which cannot be understood by everyone. The PocketDoktor® concept is new: it provides a simple yet factually well-founded text together with pictures. Using the same concept throughout, all the questions relating to the illness are addressed, whereby the focus is on giving the patient an improved understanding of his illness to enable him to cope with it better and prevent complications. The PocketDoktor® books feature an appealing design and fit in all pocket and coat pockets. The book has a personal touch thanks to the addition of the customised clinic/doctor contact data. The direct line of contact between the patient and doctor reduces fears, saves time, promotes healing and also prevents complications.

The PocketDoktor® books are generally suited for all patients, relatives and interested parties. The books can be used in everyday clinical practice as well as in practices and rehabilitation centres. Furthermore, they can be used by insurers to provide general information as well as details on disease prevention.

The books are ideally provided following diagnosis. They can either be presented directly by the attending doctor or by other clinic/practice staff. The patient can then study the book at his leisure during the stay in hospital and discuss any questions he may have with the doctor. The books can also be put out in waiting rooms and outpatient clinics where patients can help themselves.

There are currently more than 24 books. They deal with the most common illnesses. We are continuously working to expand the series.