Attend 'Reading, Writing and Arrhythmias' Symposium

For tools to help patients "get it" when they receive health information, attend a symposium the AAFP helped develop. Health Literacy: The Foundation for Patient Safety, Empowerment and Quality Health Care, dubbed "Reading, Writing and Arrhythmias," will be June 26-27 in Rosemont, Ill.

The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations and Joint Commission Resources, sponsors of the symposium, say the meeting will suggest solutions to health literacy problems that challenge about half of the country's adult patients.

Symposium materials note, "Low literacy hits hardest our most vulnerable populations -- including the elderly and minorities -- and exacerbates health care disparities." Participants can learn how to

FP Barry Weiss, M.D., professor in the family and community medicine department at the University of Arizona, Tucson, and a past president of the Arizona AFP, represented the AAFP in planning the symposium. He will present a session on Ask Me 3, a national initiative that encourages patients to ask their health professionals three questions: What is my main problem? What do I need to do? Why is it important for me to do this?

The symposium registration fee for a single participant is $775, reduced to $675 for those who register by May 27. Team discounts (for three or more participants from a single organization) also are available. Register online or by calling (877) 223-6866.