Using health service waiting areas to contribute to consumer health literacy-related outcomes
Cassie McDonald1,2,3, Catherine Voutier4, Dhruv Govil5, Aruska D’Souza2,3, Dominic Truong2, Shaza Abo2,3, Louisa Remedios2,6 1Allied Health, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, AUSTRALIA2Department of Physiotherapy, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, AUSTRALIA3Allied Health, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, AUSTRALIA4Health Sciences Library, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, AUSTRALIA5Department of Business Intelligence, Bass Coast Health, Wonthaggi, Victoria, AUSTRALIA6Department of Physiotherapy, Federation University, Churchill, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
Abstract
Introduction
Health information, resources and supports are commonly provided for consumers in health service waiting areas. The effect of such interventions on health literacy and related outcomes is unclear. A key aim of this review was to explore the types of interventions in waiting areas, outcomes of interest, and effects on health literacy-related outcomes.
Methods
A scoping review of the literature was conducted. Ten bibliographic databases and web sources were searched in September 2021. Articles focused on health literacy-related interventions in outpatient or primary care waiting areas for adult consumers were included. Two independent reviewers screened records. Data were charted into a standardised tool.
Results
The search yielded 5095 records; 59 articles reporting the effects of interventions were included. Varied types and modes of intervention delivery were reported such as audio-visual information (n=19), web-based platforms (n=15) and written information (n=10). Interventions focussed on diverse health topics such as health promotion, health screening, and specific conditions. Health literacy-related outcomes reported included: knowledge, behaviour, self-efficacy, clinical outcomes. Only one study measured health literacy. Few interventions were developed with meaningful consumer engagement (n=5). Most studies found positive trends and/or significant improvements in at least one outcome (n=55) which typically declined at follow up.
Conclusions
Targeted interventions in outpatient waiting areas show promise for contributing to health literacy-related outcomes. Engaging consumers may further improve and sustain the quality and effectiveness of waiting area interventions. Waiting areas could be used strategically to supplement consumer education in allied health appointments.
Biography
Dr Cassie McDonald is passionate about improving the health literacy responsiveness of health services, improving the health outcomes of older adults transitioning home from hospital and falls prevention. She joined Alfred Health as the Allied Health Research & Knowledge Translation Lead after completing her PhD at The University of Melbourne in 2022. In her current role, Dr McDonald leads her post-doctoral research and facilitates initiatives that build research capacity and capability within allied health. She loves working collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams. She has been awarded $2.325million in CI funding to date.