Health Information for Patients and Families: Sources, Data Types, and Tools for Evaluating Accessibility

Preeti Pandey, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA, Virtual Hearing Lab, Collaborative initiative between University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA and University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa; AND Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309, USA Follow
Richard I. Zraick, School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, College of Health Professions and Sciences, University of Central Florida, Orlando, USA
Vinaya Manchaiah, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA, Virtual Hearing Lab, Collaborative initiative between University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA and University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa, Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa, UCHealth Hearing and Balance, University of Colorado Hospital, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA; AND Department of Speech and Hearing, Manipal College of Health Professions, Manipal University, Manipal, Karnataka 576106, India

ORCID

Preeti Pandey: https://orcid.org/0009-0007-4149-2514

Abstract

This review summarizes key sources and formats of health information for patients and families, and outlines tools used to evaluate their accessibility. Health information appears across online and offline platforms in formats such as text, images, and video. Evaluation tools assess dimensions like readability, accuracy, quality, suitability, and actionability, though they vary in validity and scope. This paper offers guidance for healthcare professionals and researchers aiming to improve the accessibility and effectiveness of patient-facing health materials.

Recommended Citation

Pandey P, Zraick R, Manchaiah V. Health Information for Patients and Families: Sources, Data Types, and Tools for Evaluating Accessibility. Patient Experience Journal. ; 13(3):51-64. doi: 10.35680/2372-0247.2158.