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Organization of the Specialized Information Services Division

Office of the Director

• Plans, directs, and administers the activities of the Division of Specialized Information Services (SIS) and;
• Coordinates collaborative efforts with other Federal agencies in the general area of toxicology information.

Biomedical Files Implementation Branch

• Develops functional specifications for automated data and bibliographic files developed by SIS or established through interagency agreement;
• Consults and collaborates with public and Government scientists and organizations regarding the establishment, use, and transfer of automated biomedical information and data files;
• Defines specifications and develops procedures for the transformation and utilization of information and data acquired from external sources consistent with the needs of the scientific community;
• Provides the necessary support to permit distribution of the content of all SIS controlled files to the scientific community and Government agencies;
• Provides direction in the development of scientific data bases utilizing various data base management systems; and
• Manages contracts and agreements required in support of the above activities.

Biomedical Information Services Branch

• Ensures the integrity of SIS-sponsored files and publications, and seeks new sources and new directions for SIS programs;
• Provides delivery of specialized information to the biomedical community through recognized library resources and select online information and data files;
• Acts as a clearinghouse to bring requesters in direct contact with participating, recognized subject area experts;
• Identifies information products and services needed in the biomedical community, and responds by developing and providing such products and services;
• Demonstrates to the scientific community the scientific value of products developed, and prepares and distributes manuals and technical materials designed to facilitate the use of such products and services; and
• Manages contracts agreements required in support of the above activities.

Outreach and Special Populations Branch

• Conducts and manages outreach programs, especially those involving SIS, minorities, and minority institutions;
• Provides leadership for outreach and evaluation activities within SIS and collaborates with other offices and agencies involved in evaluation of programs and services;
• Serves as the focal point for SIS training and outreach activities to minority populations and other underserved groups;
• Serves as the SIS liaison to minority populations and other underserved groups;
• Serves as the SIS liaison with other NLM components involved in outreach and evaluation including the Office of Health Information Programs Development and the National Network of Libraries of Medicine; and
• Develops new SIS programs to reach health professionals, public health workers, and the public.