We all can agree that patient education is important. But how do we reach patients at the right time and with the right medium to really effect behavior change? Digital media can often be an ideal solution. Here are 10 good reasons why.
- Relevance and motivation. Patients come to sites when they are most ready to learn—at a time of need.
- Pacing. Patients can set their own pace for learning.
- Learning styles. A patient can learn the way that works best for him or her: by reading, viewing, listening, and/or doing.
- Breadth and depth. Content can be organized so patients can start with the basics and graduate to more advanced materials when they’re ready.
- Connections. Patients can share stories, tips, and resources—and help one another.
- Availability. Digital media don’t get buried in a pile of paper.
- Accuracy. Data buried in a pile of paper gathers dust. It’s a lot easier to keep digital media current—and safe.
- Localization. A single URL can support multiple languages and decrease the risk of misunderstandings.
- Accessibility.The design of digital media can take into account disabilities related to a condition (eg, vision impairment in the case of diabetes). It can provide alternative media for different needs.
- Experience. Digital user experience creators come from “a user point of view.” Health educators come from “a patient point of view.” When the two are combined, patients reap the benefits—educational programs that meet their needs and transform their experience of healthcare.
Megan Beardsley
VP, Creative Strategist
Amazing how simple it can be to communicate with people and have them understand a certain topic, you made my day.
Posted by: jack | 07/04/2012 at 12:39 PM