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What do you do if your patient has limited health literacy and you're a patient advocate?

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When you're a patient advocate, you may encounter individuals with limited health literacy, which means they have a harder time understanding medical information and making informed health decisions. It's crucial to recognize this barrier to ensure effective and empathetic care. Limited health literacy can stem from various factors, including education level, cultural background, and cognitive abilities. As an advocate, your role is to bridge the gap between complex medical jargon and the patient's comprehension, empowering them to make choices that align with their health goals and values.

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1 Assess Understanding

To effectively support a patient with limited health literacy, begin by assessing their level of understanding. This involves asking open-ended questions and encouraging them to explain their perception of their health condition and treatment options. Pay attention to cues that may indicate confusion, such as inconsistent information or difficulty recalling medical advice. By gauging their comprehension, you can tailor your communication to meet their needs, ensuring they grasp the essential aspects of their care.

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Kathy Sokol

RN, MSN Nursing Education, CHSE Simulation Educator, Author and Simulations Operations Facilitator
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Most important is to find out how much the patient already understands. Then see how willing they are to learn. Break down the information into small bits so as not to overwhelm the individual. Don't judge the patient, ever. If you need to repeat yourself that's OK. Some people need to hear information several times before it sinks in. If they seem to have a problem with the info, ask them what it is that is bothering them about it. Allow the patient to tell you what they need to know.

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Leny Bravo Luna

MD PHD (c)
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There is a need to promote in the training of health professionals: communicative and collaborative health with their patients, health quality systems must be aligned with the international requirements of standards that ensure excellence and quality, the basis being satisfaction of the interest groups, in the case of health our clients are our patients and we owe ourselves to their requirements first-hand..... Leny Bravo PHD (c)

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JAMES R COBB JR

Registered Nurse BSN
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As a home hospice case manager, I found it extremely beneficial to quickly establish a personable level of rapport with each of my patients/clients, as well as their family. As with any relationship, promoting an environment of trust and confidence creates an opportunity for individuals to be open and honest. It's the openness and honesty of both the provider and the patient/client that will facilitate development of a care plan that is optimal and tailored to the needs of each individual patient/client.

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Hector Caraballo, MD

“We thrive when we stay on our own leading edge.” Sarah Lewis, The Rise
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I have found several things help: 1. Use relatable analogies. Like parables in the Good Book. 2. Do talk too long. Listen more. 3. Ask the patient to verbalize what they understood in their own words.

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2 Simplify Information

Once you've assessed a patient's understanding, it's time to simplify complex medical information. Use plain language, avoiding medical jargon and technical terms that can be confusing. Instead of saying "hypertension," you could say "high blood pressure." Visual aids can be incredibly helpful, such as diagrams or illustrations that explain a condition or procedure. Ensuring the patient understands is more important than covering every detail, so focus on key points and repeat them if necessary.

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Hector Caraballo, MD

“We thrive when we stay on our own leading edge.” Sarah Lewis, The Rise
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Use relatable analogies. Tell simple stories. Most patients don’t speak ‘medicalese.’ A picture, image, illustration or video if available can be useful.

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3 Confirm Comprehension

After simplifying the information, it's important to confirm that the patient has understood. This can be done through the "teach-back" method, where you ask the patient to repeat back the information in their own words. It's a respectful way to ensure comprehension without making the patient feel tested. If they struggle to explain, patiently clarify the information and try again. This step is vital in ensuring the patient truly grasps what's being discussed.

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4 Empower Decision-Making

Empowering your patient to make informed decisions is a critical aspect of patient advocacy. Once they have a clear understanding of their health situation, discuss the various treatment options available. Explain the benefits and risks of each option in simple terms, and support them in considering their personal values and preferences. Encourage questions and provide honest answers to help them feel confident in making decisions about their care.

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Hector Caraballo, MD

“We thrive when we stay on our own leading edge.” Sarah Lewis, The Rise
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Advise the patient like you would a beloved family member. Get curious with your patients values and goals, as well as their belief models. When there is time engage is shared decision making with patients. Be clear and transparent about the potential upsides and downsides of any decision.

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5 Navigate Resources

Patients with limited health literacy might also struggle with navigating the healthcare system. As a patient advocate, guide them through the process by providing clear instructions on how to access services, manage appointments, and understand insurance benefits. Offer to assist with filling out forms or setting up follow-up appointments. By simplifying the bureaucratic aspects of healthcare, you can help reduce stress and make the system more accessible for them.

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6 Cultivate Trust

Building trust with your patient is the foundation of effective advocacy. When patients trust you, they're more likely to share their concerns and follow through with medical advice. Establish rapport by being empathetic, respectful, and patient. Listen actively to their concerns and validate their feelings. A strong relationship based on trust can significantly enhance a patient's comfort level and willingness to engage in their healthcare journey.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What do you do if your patient has limited health literacy and you're a patient advocate?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Assess Understanding

2 Simplify Information

3 Confirm Comprehension

4 Empower Decision-Making

5 Navigate Resources

6 Cultivate Trust

7 Here’s what else to consider

Patient Advocacy

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What do you do if your patient has limited health literacy and you're a patient advocate?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Assess Understanding

2 Simplify Information

3 Confirm Comprehension

4 Empower Decision-Making

5 Navigate Resources

6 Cultivate Trust

7 Here’s what else to consider

Patient Advocacy

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