HIPAA compliant email protects patient data and empowers patients by conveniently delivering relevant educational content. Allowing efficient distribution of multimedia resources like videos and infographics can enhance understanding and retention of important health information.
What is health literacy?
Health literacy is an individual's ability to obtain, understand, and use health related information effectively. A chapter in Health Literacy: A Prescription to End Confusion notes, “Health literacy is a shared function of cultural, social, and individual factors. Both the causes and the remedies for limited health literacy rest with our cultural and social framework, the health and education systems that serve it, and the interactions between these factors.”
It goes beyond reading pamphlets or following medical instructions to include a comprehensive set of skills necessary for making informed health decisions. It is recognized as a social determinant of health, meaning that individuals with higher health literacy are generally better equipped to manage their health. Digital resources have been shown to act as a tool in developing health literacy among patients.
The educational materials that benefit patient health literacy
- Concise, easy-to-read hand outs that explain medical conditions, treatment options, and medication instructions.
- Infographics, diagrams, and illustrations that simplify medical information and help patients visualize their health conditions and treatment processes.
- Education videos, interactive modules, and FAQs about health topics.
- Comprehensive toolkits like the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Health Literacy Precautions Toolkit offer strategies for creating easy-to-read material.
- Instruments like the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool (PEMAT) help healthcare providers evaluate the understandability and actionability of educational materials.
Why HIPAA compliant email should be used to educate patients
HIPAA compliant email offers a convenient way for patients to receive personalized digital educational material directly to their inboxes. The method supports proactive engagement that allows patients to ask questions, seek clarification on medical instructions, and access tailored educational content that addresses their specific health concerns.
How can HIPAA compliant email be used to educate patients
- Providers can send tailored educational content directly to patients based on their specific health conditions. For example, a patient with diabetes may receive emails containing dietary tips, medication reminders, and links to relevant resources.
- HIPAA compliant emails can be used to send reminders for upcoming appointments and follow-up instructions after visits or procedures.
- Using email eliminates the need for patients to navigate complex online portals to access educational materials. A direct approach simplifies the process for patients.
- Providers can share videos, infographics, and interactive content via HIPAA compliant email. These multimedia resources can enhance understanding by presenting information in diverse formats that cater to different learning styles.
FAQs
What qualifies as an informed health decision?
An informed health decision is one made by a patient who has received relevant information about their health condition and treatment options in a manner they can understand.
What are the basics of personalization?
The basics of personalization in healthcare involve tailoring medical care and communication to meet the individual needs, preferences, and circumstances of each patient.
What is the main problem with patient portals?
The main problem with patient portals is that they often present usability challenges that can hinder patient engagement and access to important health information.
Kirsten Peremore
