Clinician- and environmental-related barriers
Clinicians themselves or the settings they work in may unintentionally create barriers.
a) Use of medical jargon and complex explanations
Many clinicians unconsciously use technical language, assuming patients understand terms that are second nature to them (Castro et al., 2007).
Challenges
- Patient confusion from complex explanations.
- Limited patient engagement or reluctance to ask questions.
Practical strategies
- Replace medical jargon with simple, relatable terms.
- Consistently check patient understanding.
- Foster open dialogue and a welcoming atmosphere.
b) Time constraints
Limited consultation time can restrict the depth of patient education (Ha & Longnecker, 2010).
Challenges
- Insufficient time for detailed explanations.
- Rushed interactions leading to poor patient understanding or retention of information.
Strategies to overcome this barrier
- Prioritise and clearly outline key messages.
- Supplement verbal education with written or digital resources.
- Schedule additional time for follow-up if needed.
c) Distractions and lack of privacy
Noisy or busy clinical environments may hinder patient focus and open communication (Rodriguez et al., 2015).
Challenges
- Difficulty maintaining concentration.
- Reluctance to discuss sensitive issues openly.
Practical strategies
- Conduct sensitive or important discussions in quieter spaces.
- Minimise environmental distractions.
- Provide written materials to reinforce messages after consultations.
d) Inconsistent or conflicting information
Patients may receive differing advice from multiple healthcare providers, creating confusion (Haggerty et al., 2013).
Challenges
- Decreased trust due to contradictory recommendations.
- Confusion about appropriate treatment pathways.
Practical strategies
- Ensure consistent messaging within healthcare teams.
- Develop unified care plans accessible to all providers.
- Encourage patients to seek clarity if conflicting advice arises.
e) Lack of accessible educational resources
A lack of patient-friendly educational materials can prevent patients from revisiting critical information independently (Wilson et al., 2012).
Challenges
- Limited opportunities to review important points.
- Unavailability of resources in multiple accessible formats.
Practical strategies
- Provide high-quality, accessible resources across print, digital, and video formats.
- Ensure resources meet literacy and cultural appropriateness.
- Integrate structured patient education consistently into care pathways.
Reflective prompt: Patient education
Think about a challenging patient education scenario you’ve encountered. How might understanding these barriers have improved your educational approach?
Key takeaways
Identify and address patient-related barriers such as literacy, psychological factors, cultural differences, and misinformation.
Communicate clearly, avoiding medical jargon and rushed interactions.
Optimise the healthcare environment to support effective education.
Provide accessible, consistent educational resources to reinforce learning.
