Table 2.

Clear health communication techniques

Explain things clearly in plain language

Avoid medical jargon (for example, state "long-term" rather than "chronic")

Avoid vague terms such as "negative" test result

Slow down

Focus on 1-3 key points or messages - and repeat

Confirm understanding using teach-back

"I want to be sure that I explained your medication correctly. Can you tell me how you are going to take this medication?"

Effectively encourage patients to ask questions

"What questions do you have?" rather than "Do you have any questions"

Use analogies and pictures

Use patient friendly educational materials

4th-6th grade reading level

Picture-based

Write down important instructions