Use Plain Language

Junk the Jargon (Provider Education)

What is plain language?

• Simple, easy to understand words

• Communication that your patient can understand the first time they hear or read it

• Language that allows people to understand and act on the health information

Why use plain language?

When you use plain language, you can:

• Improve communication

• Show patient centered care

• Eliminate barriers

• Improve patient safety

• Reduce time spent explaining

• Improve compliance

How do you use plain language?

• Active voice
  Identify who is doing what. Keep the subject up front.

• Common words
  Use simple, easy to understand words. Try not to use medical jargon.

• Keep it short
  Stick to 1 to 3 ideas. Remove words you don’t need.

• Positive tone
  Write and speak in a friendly tone.

• Logical organization
  Put the most important points first.

• Easy to read design
  Use headings and subheadings, bullet points and pictures.

• Learn more at www.healthliteracymn.org.

Essentia Health is a proud member of the Minnesota Health Literacy Partnership | Literacy Minnesota