Dateline DFCI
New Web sites offer more information, easier access
For the past three years, visitors to the Dana-Farber Web site, have been greeted by a soft, gray image of a doctor embracing one of his young patients against a stark white background. That changed this fall when the Institute unveiled a new Web site featuring a fresh design with easy to access cancer information, and more interactive services.
Dana-Farber home page
The new site, officially launched in September, is designed to better serve Dana-Farber patients and families, the medical community, and the general public.
"Our goal has been to create a top online resource for cancer patients and their families," says Caren Cummings, DFCI's director of interactive communications. "We have worked with patients and staff throughout the Institute to provide complete, up-to-date cancer information and to make it easier for people to find what they need."
The Institute partnered with two Boston-based Web development firms — New Tilt and Pandora Systems — to rebuild the DFCI site and the accompanying Jimmy Fund site (www.jimmyfund.org), which originally were launched by the Communications Department a few years ago. The two companies have developed several exceptional Web sites together, including the Massachusetts Port Authority site (www.massport.com), which provides realtime flight information from Logan Airport and has garnered several local, national, and international awards.
Among the highlights of Dana-Farber's new site are a comprehensive database of cancer information with search capabilities; a directory of physicians and researchers; an online appointment request form; easy access to maps and other visitor information; an employment board allowing people to apply for jobs at DFCI; and electronic giving and registration for fundraising events.
"More and more individuals are turning to the Internet for health information, and Dana-Farber is a source that people can trust," notes Senior Vice President for Communications Steven Singer. He adds that the Web project is an important strategic initiative that will support patient care, fundraising, and the Institute's overall reputation and visibility. "We are building a foundation for the future," he says.
