Supporting Radiation Therapy Patients with Limited Health Literacy

Health literacy is one of the most important determinants of patient outcome. Literacy levels are influenced by factors such as formal education status, socioeconomic circumstances, age, language, cultural background, and employment status. Few health professionals are aware of health literacy issues, and even fewer can accurately address them. The purpose of this review article was to bring attention to the issue of health literacy, to provide information on how to identify patients at risk of limited health literacy, and to develop communication strategies designed to support cancer patients and their families. This article also aimed to develop and identify specific tools for radiation therapists and the radiation medical science community based on literature, evidence, and educational material from nursing and other allied professions. Health care organizations and professionals need to be aware of their duty to ensure that patients fully comprehend both the complex and simple information presented. Improving comprehension related to health choices leads to better decision making by the patient, improves patient outcomes, reduces hospitalization rates, and cuts health care costs.