The Prospects Of Using Patient Education Handouts

By Matthew Thomas


Medical professionals need to be proactive in getting the relevant information to patients concerning promotion of health and prevention of diseases. It is not a time to leave them in the dark on matters which can cause death. There are various ways through which this can be done. Using patient education handouts is a sure way.

You will be able to explain in detail various phenomena when you use these materials. You cannot do this on slides because they have to be kept light in order to make sure they do not appear cluttered. Patients can take them for future references too.

You have the opportunity to better explain technical and complicated matters through typing them. Also, there is the choice to bold the key points and even use color highlights to set them apart. At the end, you can include information on references and case studies which are relevant to the details. Also, any collateral materials and literature in marketing your work and even contact information can be noted.

Because you cannot expect all of your patients to read case studies or medical textbooks in order to understand certain issues better, you can summarize the points you want them to take home. Depending on the information you wish to share, you can give the handouts before or after the session. It is good to give them before when the information is technical. They can go though the materials quickly before the start so as to understand better when you start explaining. Also, they can formulate relevant questions when they have the details with them.

You should not be reluctant on professionalism just because you have the option to type the details. Use font size which does not strain the eyes to read. Also, use black ink on white background unless you are working under special circumstances. Varying your presentation styles is important.

You need to be cautious in editing. You might overdo the work in the name of styling. Thus, do not produce a copy which has being overly edited to appear absurd. Other educators who have prepared handouts before can be consulted. Also, ask them if they have standard templates you can use.

Make sure the population you are addressing can read before you decide to use handouts. There is no need to go to extra lengths in order to prepare the documents when they will be of no help. They should be used on patients who are literate. Also, make sure the language is within their level. Do not include complicated medical terms.

You need to get the number of the attendees before you make the copies. Make sure everyone has his or her own handout. It will be easier to follow through the discussion. Also, it can be taken home for further reading. You need to produce more copies than the number you have because more patients can come in. Breaking the session to photocopy the copies will be time wastage. In addition, be well prepared for the discussion. It will be successful if your explanations are to the point and informative.




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