Health Information

Learning how to find health information you can trust is a necessary skill. Library staff help you search for books, DVDs, articles, and websites on the topics that interest you, from diseases and conditions to memoirs of personal experiences, and the newest wellness bestsellers to prevention and treatment guides. 

Featured Health Resources at the Library 

Search the library catalog using keywords for your diagnosis, disease or condition to find books, DVDs, plus access digital content through Libby, Hoopla, Flipster and more.

Use the library’s online research tools for Health topics.

Browse the health bags by topic. Each bag includes several recommended books to help you learn more about the topic. We have health bags on 15 different topics including diabetes, fibromyalgia, gut health, ADHD, pregnancy,  healthy aging, and thyroid disorders.

Monitor your blood pressure and weight at the library using the Life Clinic Health Station presented by Stormont Vail Health and our digital scale.  Knowing your personal health measurements is a starting place to take control of your health and it’s a great way to monitor your progress. Both devices The devices are located in the Large Print area near the Customer Service Desk.

Health Information Basics

For everyday consumer health information, begin your internet searching with MedlinePlus from the National Library of Medicine.

Review the tips and training at Evaluating Health information from MedlinePlus at the National Library of Medicine. Ask questions before you trust what you read or hear. Discuss the information you find with your health care provider before you rely on it. You may have found good information, but your provider can tell you whether it's good for you.

Frequently Asked Health Information 

Health Care Documents 
Kansas-specific explanation from Kansas Legal Services about living wills and durable power of attorney for health care decisions.

Choosing a Doctor or Health Care Service 
We all want high-quality health care, but it’s hard to know how to choose. This resource page from MedlinePlus points to additional topics to consider, including what your insurance covers, whether a health care provider or service is accredited, and other information to help you choose a health care provider or service.

Health Insurance 

Kansas Insurance Department
Includes health, Medicare and long-term care insurance information from the state agency that regulates, licenses, educates and assists with all insurance companies and consumers in Kansas.

Health Insurance Marketplace  
Find updates on the federal Health Insurance Marketplace.

KanCare
Answers consumer questions about KanCare, the Medicaid option for Kansas,  including choosing a health plan, and applying for KanCare coverage.

Local Health Resources

• Shawnee County Health Department 
• Livewell Shawnee County 
• Stormont Vail Health 
• Kansas Department of Health and Environment