It begins with research

  In preparation for the project, Ms. Balman spent months researching the impact of poor health literacy on health care outcomes. Evidence showed that patients often misinterpret or did not understand the information given them by clinicians. In fact, more than 90 million people in the U.S. were reported to have health literacy issues. This lack of understanding could and has led to medication errors, adverse medical outcomes and even malpractice suits.

In her research, she found that national organizations such as the Agency for Health Research and Quality all have addressed this issue, and some have created tools to help alleviate this problem. However, she discovered that most of these tools were not being utilized.

 

Customized approach

  In designing the ACE program, Ms. Balman utilized the academic detailing method. Through a total of four one-hour lunch-and-learn educational sessions the practice staff and clinicians are introduced to "The Health Literacy Universal Precautions Tool Kit" (created for AHRQ). The program enables each staff member to assess their own and the practice's competency in four primary areas of health literacy (spoken communication, written communication, self management/empowerment for the patient, and supportive systems). Tools are then chosen and implemented that best suit the practice. Practitioners may earn up to 20 continuing educations credits.
  The program also offers a one-hour workshop for patients interested in improving their skills in communicating with their health care professionals. The program is available to primary care practices, specialists as well as dental practices in all 15 Southern AHEC counties.
  "When I heard about the health literacy project I immediately wanted to participate. Any time we have the opportunity to improve the service we offer our patients we want to be involved" said Dr. Paul Pedersen a family physician in Barbourville, Ky.