WebQuest: More Improvements and a New Look

Over two years ago, at the request of many of you, we launched an Internet version of the NDB research questionnaire. We call it `WebQuest.' Most people who have used it were quite pleased and have helped us make several improvements.

For 2004 the WebQuest will have a new look! The WebQuest will still be as easy as ever to use.

Why you should use WebQuest rather than the paper surveys

It's easier and faster. WebQuest remembers who you are and doesn't ask you to complete questions for which we already have an answer. It remembers your medications, as well. And it branches! If a section of the questionnaire doesn't apply to you, WebQuest skips it. Give WebQuest a try.

If you are not now using it there are two ways to start: 1) go to "Request NDB Questionnaire on the Web" or 2) send us an email at webquest@arthritis-research.org.

WebQuest keeps track of medications you reported last time.

We have also launched an Internet version of the NDB Enrollment Questionnaire for people who want to join the NDB research and are not currently participating. It is available on our website at http://www.arthritis-research.org/ndb_enroll.htm. So, if you know anyone with arthritis or other arthritis-related diseases tell them about us. Web Enrollment is quick and easy and it's a great way to forward arthritis research.

If you have any questions about the WebQuest, want more information on the Web enrollment questionnaire, or if your email address has changed, please let us know at webquest@arthritis-research.org or call us at 1-800-323-5871 x143. We will email you everything you need to get started. If you completed the WebQuest last time you will be automatically emailed a new invitation.

WebQuest automatically skips sections that don't apply to you.

Growing On the Internet - The NDB Website gets a Facelift, New Features

We have upgraded our Web site to make it friendly and more functional for both patients and physicians. New features include the navigation section on the right with physician and patient specific pages, and then general research pages. We have posted a variety of new information so we invite you to take some time and browse through the website.

Another new website feature we are very excited about is the NDB Forum. The Forum is available for NDB participants to post comments, ask questions, or find out new information. It will be mediated by a NDB Staff member, and allows all NDB participants a place to connect with others in the research project.

The three forums topics are:

QUESTIONNAIRES: In the many years that we have been doing NDB research we have had many questions and comments about our questionnaires - gripes, sighs, and some kudos. This forum is one place you can ask these questions and get a reply from NDB staff.

RESEARCH: We keep telling you about the research we do, but you don't usually get all of the details. This forum is a place you can ask about specific research we have done. You can also give us suggestions for research that you think is important.

ARTHRITIS-RHEUMATOLOGY: This forum is where you can post questions that are not related to the NDB and is a great place to get information from others participating in the study. In this particular forum the NDB staff will observe rather than comment. But occasionally we'll jump in. This is your chance to make suggestions to us. We listen carefully to what you say.

You can find the NDB Forum at the following address http://www.arthritis-research.org/bbs.htm.