This monograph from the AMA Foundation explores the critical connection between health literacy and patient safety. It outlines how limited health literacy can contribute to medication errors, misunderstanding of care instructions, poorer health outcomes, and increased health care costs.
Designed for clinicians and health care organizations, the monograph emphasizes practical, evidence-based communication strategies to support patient understanding. Key themes include creating a shame-free care environment, using clear and plain language, simplifying complex medical information, and applying the teach-back method to confirm comprehension.
This publication is no longer in print and is difficult to find online. With permission from the AMA Foundation, it is preserved here to support education, training, and ongoing efforts to improve patient safety through health-literate practices.