Question
What strategies can practitioners use to improve health communication, and what tools are available to assess health literacy in practice?
Answer
Practitioners can improve health communication by using plain language, avoiding jargon, and clearly explaining technical or medical terms. Organizing information so that the most important points come first, breaking content into manageable sections, and using visual aids such as diagrams or pictures can further support understanding. The "teach-back" method, where patients repeat information in their own words, is effective for confirming comprehension. Additionally, practitioners should be culturally sensitive, consider individual learning preferences, and involve family members when appropriate to enhance adherence and understanding.
To assess health literacy, several validated tools are available. The Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults (TOFHLA) evaluates reading and numeracy skills using real-world healthcare materials. The Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine (REALM) involves reading a list of medical terms to estimate reading level, while the Newest Vital Sign (NVS) uses a nutrition label and related questions to assess prose, numeracy, and document literacy. These tools help practitioners identify patients who may need additional support and allow for tailored communication strategies to improve health outcomes.
This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course, 'Health Literacy in Practice: Effective Communication and Education', presented by Kathleen D. Weissberg, OTD, OTR/L, CMDCP, CDP, CFPS, CGCS.
