Monday, January 4, 2016

Health Literacy - Please Help Me Understand!

Take a look at this video (and a short version) from the American Medical Association to understand why “health literacy” is such an important topic in good patient care. Patients face challenges and a big one might be communicating with you and the pharmacy. Identify the 2 or 3 most important bits of information they must understand and use “living room language.” The American College of Physicians film will also give you valuable insight.
Always use the Teach-Back method to be sure you have explained clearly – ask them to tell you what they will tell their family, what they need to know and do. If they cannot do this then you have a chance to re-explain while they are still with you.

Websites referenced
AMA YouTube video 23 minutes:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGtTZ_vxjyA
American College of Physicians 6-1/2 minutes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ImnlptxIMXs