Case 1
As a professional field, healthcare contains many jargons and complicated terms that can hardly be understood by laypersons. When dealing with the patients, physicians and other health professionals must distinguish between the use of medical terms and common language that can be understood by patients and their families (Robnett, Brossoie, Chop, 2020). First, Arnold did not understand what Dr. Lopez told him due to the heavy terms employed. Secondly, the doctor explains the pathophysiology not only using complex terms but in a way that would have made little sense to an older adult like Arnold.
The doctor should focus on the use of simplified language. The doctor should remain explicit and detailed while explaining the role of the Metformin and glucose monitor prescribed. As such, this clarity will guarantee that the patient follows all the necessary instructions.
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Lastly, it was not a good idea for Lopez to be referred to the doctor’s practice website for additional information. If Arnold has hardly understood what the doctor has said, it would be wrong to assume that he would fathom the information on the website.
Case 2
Health literacy remains one of the most fundamental aspects of leveraging an individual’s wellbeing. Jean’s definition of health literacy focuses on understanding one’s health and knowing what a person needs to stay healthy. However, this definition is not accurate. Health literacy also focuses on the ability to read and decipher what the doctor says and writes about one’s health (Robnett et al., 2020).
Dr. Falk and Dr. Keller should address the issue of health literacy in their professional practice. The statistics are clear that half of the population lack the necessary health literacy skills. Therefore, in a bid to promote health and achieve better outcomes, the doctors should lay down mechanisms for bolstering health literacy in their area of work.
The resources for health literacy include well-written pamphlets and magazines availed for patients, among other reading materials. The doctors can also utilize audio-visual materials such as televisions and computers to explain basic health terms and teach individuals on various health promotional skills.
Reference
Robnett, R.H., Brossoie, N., Chop, W.C. (2020). Gerontology for the Health Care Professional (4th Edition). Burlington, MA: Jones and Bartlett Learning.
