How should health information be presented to patients with limited health literacy?

• A. Use plain language, avoid medical jargon, short sentences, visuals, and confirm understanding with teach-back
• B. Use medical jargon to sound professional
• C. Speak slowly but with medical terms
• D. Provide only written materials

Answer: (A)

Communicating in plain language and verifying understanding with teach-back is essential for patients who may have limited health literacy. Using plain language means choosing everyday words, short sentences, and an active voice, while avoiding medical jargon unless you also take the time to explain it. Visuals like simple diagrams or icons can support understanding. The teach-back method—having patients restate the instructions in their own words—lets you confirm what they’ve understood and address any misunderstandings right away. This approach improves comprehension, recall, and adherence, and enhances safety. Relying on medical terms, even if spoken slowly, keeps information inaccessible for many, and providing only written materials assumes a level of reading ability that not all patients have. So plain language with visuals and teach-back is the most effective choice.