AT published a study, the authors of which decided to assess how well patients understand what doctors say to them during the reception. Scientists from the University of Minnesota, along with specialists from the Center for Biostatistical Design and Analysis, conducted a survey among visitors to the local fair. The questionnaire combined open-ended and multiple-choice questions that assessed understanding of common phrases used in medicine, as well as data on age, gender, and level of education.
The results were amazing. 96% of the survey participants were able to understand that the expression “your cancer screening results are negative” is used when they want to report good news – a person no longer has cancer. But to understand the phrase “you are halfway through chemotherapy and your tumor is progressingNot everyone was able to – only 79% of respondents said that such a warning from a doctor does not bode well.
Only 67% of survey participants answered that “positive lymph nodes‘ is something bad. 80% of the respondents were able to correctly determine that “radiography without features‘ is good news. However, only 22% of respondents answered that “impressive radiography‘ is definitely bad news.
The results of the work show: Patients do not always understand what doctors specifically want to tell them. Therefore, it is so important to clarify all incomprehensible points and not be shy to ask questions.