Erin Gilmer recently posted a very interesting “Literacy Comprehension” form from an Endoscopy Center. Check out the form below:
Never seen a form like this for a procedure. Interesting but not sure it proves comprehension. pic.twitter.com/cfOvGeWOLd
— Erin Gilmer (@GilmerHealthLaw) October 31, 2017
You have to applaud this effort by a practice to make sure that the patients understand the information being presented to them as part of the procedure. The cynic might argue that the clinic is just trying to cover their backside. However, Erin asks the more important question, “Is this an effective way to prove comprehension?”
I do like how this can open the patient up to the option to have a discussion about something they don’t understand. It sends a good message to the patients in that regard which could make the patient feel more appreciated and help the patient feel comfortable asking a question about something they would have just previously kept to themselves.
However, for those that aren’t literate, I don’t think this form will do much. I expect that many patients that aren’t literate likely get into a zone where they just sign whatever the medical practice gives them regardless of what it is and regardless of whether they can read it or not.
I think the idea is a good one but could be executed better. Could this be done verbally and have a bigger impact? What other ideas have you seen implemented? Do you like this approach or are their better ways to accomplish it?
