Slow down, and take time to assess the patients’ health literacy skills.

Use “living room” language instead of medical terminology.

Show or draw pictures to enhance understanding and subsequent recall.

Limit information given at each interaction, and repeat instructions.

Use a “teach back” or “show me” approach to confirm understanding. This approach involves having physicians take responsibility for adequate teaching by asking patients to demonstrate what they have been told (e.g., repeat how to take their medication) to ensure that education has been adequate.

Be respectful, caring, and sensitive, thereby empowering patients to participate in their own health care.