Health Literacy Distance Education Program

The Ohio State University Medical Center

"The greatest problem in communication is the illusion that it has been accomplished. "
- – George Bernard Shaw

Welcome to The Ohio State University AHEC Health Literacy Distance Education Modules!

Freindly caring nuse with older patientThe Ohio State University AHEC Health Literacy Program offers comprehensive professional development and continuing education in the field of health literacy.  The program has been developed by Dr. Sandra Cornett, Director of the OSU/AHEC Clear Health Communication Program, and a national leader in health literacy training,

The OSU AHEC Health Literacy Distance Education Modules are appropriate for physicians, nurses, therapists, counselors, and all health practitioners providing direct or indirect patient care. Learn about available continuing education credit.

By beginning with the core module, Health Literacy: It's Time To Take It Seriously! and continuing through the remaining modules as suggested on the Modules link above, you will build valuable knowledge and skills to more effectively communicate orally and in writing with people who have limited literacy skills. 

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Low health literacy is a serious threat to the well being of patients seeking medical care, and ultimately to the stability of the healthcare system. Chances are high that some of your patients are among the 36% of Americans who struggle to understand and act on health information. 

Consider some of the benefits of clear health communications and why it's important to all healthcare practitioners: 

  • Better patient/healthcare practitioner relationship with increased satisfaction for both parties
  • Less possibility of litigation
  • Patients who are more able to follow medical advice and self-manage their care
  • Fewer broken appointments
  • And more.......

 

Have you ever thought the explanations you gave to patients and families were understood, only to find out later they misunderstood what you said, and an error was made? Read what one patient experienced when she tried to hide her shame about her inability to read well. 

 

Dr. Cornett, the planner, content specialist, and feedback provider of these modules, has no conflict of interest to disclose. The planning committee has no conflict of interest to disclose. There was no commercial support or sponsorship for development of this program.

To successfully complete this program and receive contact hours you must receive 100% on the post test and complete the evaluation form.