Many Canadians have a hard time understanding medical language, which is often complex or confusing. They also may have trouble reading information doctors give them and understanding what physicians tell them. This can lead to misinterpretation of instructions and mean that the quality of care, through lack of adherence to a treatment plan, is compromised. And, as the court cases indicate, it also may have alarming legal implications. Given the competing legal interests and the potential for liability, as well as inadequate guidelines from Canadian courts that can be used in determining physicians' conduct, plain language is vital.
Physicians communicate with patients as they obtain informed consent.
The physician can explain the outcome of the procedure in simple terms, then pose additional questions to ensure the patient understands the potential outcomes. The physician who uses the plain-language approach will not only use simple terms but also acknowledge if the patient is in pain or uncomfortable, or has strong feelings about the proposed treatment. This helps patients listen and learn, because they feel they are being understood. Plain language reminds physicians that many patients have limited reading, writing and listening skills. When patients fail to ask questions or resist instructions or guidance, the physician should consider that they may not understand what is being said or that they may not be able to do what is being suggested.