People who search the Web for reliable health information are faced with a daunting task. Much of the information available on reputable health education sites may be accurate but too confusing or boring to be useful.
A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine reviewed patient-oriented content provided by 16 specialist medical societies. The analysis showed that the overwhelming majority of the information did not conform to readability recommendations made by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the AMA. Although family medicine resources were presented in understandable language, other specialties, especially dermatology, would strain the educational level of the average American. Dr. Lisa Gualtieri of Tufts University explained that organizations use language they are familiar with rather than trying to translate complex medical concepts into plain language that everyone can understand.
[JAMA Internal Medicine, online May 20, 2013]
