Patient preferences for receiving health information - does it vary by health literacy level?

Background: Health professionals rely on a wide variety of health education methods to teach patients about their respective health issues. Written health education materials and electronic media are widely used. However, about 90 million Americans have low literacy skills (difficulty with reading and understanding written materials). In addition, while technological advances in health communications can potentially aid individuals in managing their health, it can also be a barrier for others.

Methods: This exploratory study evaluated preferences for receiving health information and health literacy levels by surveying 150 patients with multiple risk factors for cardiovascular disease in two different health care systems in Denver, CO. Participants were recruited from a health maintenance organization and a community health clinic to obtain a diverse sample. Preferences for receiving health information were assessed via open-ended questions. Health literacy levels were assessed via the Short Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults (STOFHLA). Responses to open-ended questions were documented verbatim and transcribed. Transcribed responses were coded and analyzed in Atlas ti. Analytic themes were compared across health literacy levels.

Results: Preliminary findings show patients prefer to receive information face-to-face (in person) from a health care professional, regardless of health literacy level. Final results from the project will be presented.

Conclusion: The results from this study serve as the beginning step to understanding if current health education methods are in alignment with patient preferences.