Let’s play a simple round of this or that. Which phrases do you think patients are more likely to understand when reviewing their patient portals?

• This: Repositioning, IOL. Or that: Operation to reposition intraocular lens (artificial lens in eye).
• This: Ureterolithotomy. Or that: Operation to remove stone from ureter (tube that carries urine from kidney to bladder).

The former, more complex clinical terms, are readily understandable by clinicians, coders, and those in the know. But for patients trying to comprehend their diagnoses, treatments, and care plans – or even what they’re being billed for – patient-friendly terminology (PFT), like the latter, is essential.

Due to recent regulatory changes and legislative developments, patients now have unprecedented access to their medical data. Unfortunately, without patient-friendly language this increased access can quickly lead to confusion rather than clarity.

Download our latest insight brief for a closer look at:

• How greater access to healthcare data doesn’t equal greater understanding
• How new rules around price transparency and information blocking are fueling the need for PFT
• The role of patient-friendly language in healthcare and how it can benefit patients, providers, and payers