FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 3, 2000
Consumer Health Information Corporation Featured in
USA Today Article on Need for Effective Patient Information

Dr. Dorothy L. Smith, founder and President of Consumer Health Information Corporation, was quoted in a May 3, 2000, front page USA Today article which highlighted the dangers that arise from people taking a medication without having the information needed to be able to take it safely and effectively.

The article, entitled "Complex Drug Labels Bury Safety Message," emphasized that problems occur because medications come with package inserts containing information that is written in language that is difficult for the consumer to understand, printed in small type, and full of complicated medical terms. Even physicians often overlook the warnings contained in these package inserts, the article noted.

"Some of the [pharmaceutical] companies have realized that their drugs will never be effective if people don't take them correctly," Dr. Smith was quoted as saying in the article.

She added that Consumer Health works to develop Patient Package Inserts, or PPIs, that are written in patient-friendly language, in the belief that patients can make wise decisions about their medications when they are well informed about how to take it, possible side effects, and the risks associated with drug interactions.

Consumer Health Information Corporation has produced a range of educational material about medication for the pharmaceutical industry, consumer organizations and other groups. Author of more than 20 books on proper use of medications written for consumers and health professionals, Dr. Smith is an internationally recognized expert in patient education and patient compliance.