In 2008, staff working on the Health Information Tool for Empowerment (HITE) trained 650 staff at 25 different programs and organizations on how to effectively access information and use the HITE Web site. The Web site, at
www.hitesite.org, is an online directory of free and low-cost health and social services that allows users to search for resources by service, zip code, keyword, and language.
These trainings occurred throughout the New York City and Long Island areas. Staff from hospitals, community-based organizations, social service agencies, health coalitions, and other agencies working directly with underinsured and/or low-income populations participated in the trainings. Each session included an in-depth tour of
www.hitesite.org and tips on how to conduct searches in the HITE database. HITE staff also provided each group with information packets containing brochures, additional instructions, case studies, and HITE Help Desk contact information.
HITE staff will continue to offer trainings in a new outreach initiative in 2009. To schedule a training, please contact the HITE Help Desk at (
866) 370-HITE.