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The readability, suitability, and content features of eczema action plans in the United States
Author(s) -
Stringer Thomas,
Yin H. Shonna,
Gittler Julia,
Curtiss Paul,
Schneider Amanda,
Oza Vikash S.
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
pediatric dermatology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.542
H-Index - 73
eISSN - 1525-1470
pISSN - 0736-8046
DOI - 10.1111/pde.13682
Subject(s) - readability , grade level , medicine , medical education , reading (process) , health literacy , literacy , family medicine , psychology , health care , computer science , mathematics education , pedagogy , linguistics , philosophy , economics , programming language , economic growth
Background/Objectives Little is known about the reading grade level (readability), appropriateness of design (suitability), and content variability of written eczema action plans ( EAP s), which can impact the effectiveness of these patient education tools. Here, we assess the readability, suitability, and content of EAP s currently used by pediatric dermatologists in the United States. Methods This was a cross‐sectional study of EAP s submitted by members of the Society for Pediatric Dermatology (n = 26). Readability, suitability, and content of sampled plans were systematically assessed. Results Mean ( SD ) reading grade level was 9.0 (2.1); one in five was written at the recommended level of 6th grade or lower. While the majority of EAP s were found to be adequately suitable, one in five was unsuitable and only two superior. Documents scored most poorly in layout/design and learning stimulation. Plans scored best in the categories of content and literacy demand. EAP s focused on similar content themes, though specific recommendations and descriptors of atopic dermatitis ( AD ) disease states varied considerably. Conclusions The health literacy burden of EAP s in the United States could be lowered by improving their readability, incorporating graphics, stimulating reader engagement, and developing standards for how AD flares are defined.