A radiation therapist's guide to health literacy: A narrative review. Issue 4 (16th June 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kelly, Toni; Surjan, Yolanda; Rinks, Marianne; Warren‐Forward, Helen
• Is Part Of: Journal of medical radiation sciences. Volume 68:Issue 4(2021)
• Page Start: 465
• Page End: 474
• Publication Date: 2021-06-16
• Subjects: barriers -- health literacy -- patient‐centred care -- radiation therapist -- screening; Radiology, Medical -- Periodicals; Radiology, Medical -- Australia -- Periodicals; Radiology, Medical -- New Zealand -- Periodicals; Radiotherapy -- Periodicals; Diagnostic imaging -- Periodicals; 616
• DOI: 10.1002/jmrs.520
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2051-3895

Abstract

Abstract: Radiation therapist (RT) communication plays an essential part of patient‐centred care in achieving better patient outcomes within radiation oncology. Patients present from a range of social circumstances, education levels and cultural backgrounds, all of which may significantly impact their level of health literacy (HL). Using literature sourced from databases such as EMCare Nursing & Allied Health Database, MEDLINE(R) and APA PsycInfo, this narrative review explores HL definitions, international comparison rates and indications of individual low HL. It also reviews HL assessments as well as exploring enablers and barriers to HL from the RT perspective. Strategies from both the individual or organisational perspective are provided for RTs to begin or continue their HL interest. By educating the radiation therapy profession about health literacy and making small changes in interpersonal interactions, there is the opportunity to impact patients' experiences and outcomes significantly. Abstract : Radiation therapist (RT) communication plays an essential part in patient‐centred care in achieving better patient outcomes within radiation oncology. This article explores a range of definitions, international comparison rates and strategies on health literacy from the RT perspective. By educating the radiation therapy profession about health literacy, making small changes in interpersonal interactions, there is the opportunity to make a significant impact on patients' experiences and outcomes.