What We Don't Do

In explaining what we do, we also find it useful to describe what we don't do.

We are not a library and do not freely provide access to library resources, including those resources held by the University of Alberta Libraries. However, groups or organizations that we work with may have access to their own resources or library. CHE can integrate those resources within a desktop, resulting in a single point of entry that supports workflow. Also, due to our previous experience and relationships with vendors, CHE can help groups negotiate with vendors to license or subscribe to resources they are interested in.

We do not teach open courses. For example, we don't independently run classes on evidence-based practice that you could sign up for. However, we do contribute to workshops such as those run at American College of Physicians conferences, and the annual Putting Evidence into Practice (PEP) workshop offered at the University of Alberta. Dr. Robert Hayward teaches courses regularly at the University of Alberta and the University of Victoria on critical appraisal of the medical literature, clinical decision support, and more. Interested people can check the conference websites for further information or register for courses through the universities.

We do not usually provide technical services on their own. We have outstanding individuals on our technical staff, but we do not "lend" or "rent" them out. Their time is dedicated to serving the projects that support our philosophy. However, within the scope of any project or program that includes the provision of desktop services, teaching, or consultations, our network and programming staff members contribute their skills, experience, and energy to the project.

CHE History