The responsibility for implementing health literacy strategies into practice is most often associated with clinical healthcare providers. However, all members of the health care team, including your nonclinical workers, can also make health literacy contributions that make a difference! Effective communication skills are vital for all members of a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
As an administrative leader, prioritizing an organizational culture of clear communication will help your staff work efficiently, and meet team goals and expectations that can impact patient outcomes and the patient experience. Although nonclinical workers do not provide medical treatments or testing they are responsible for a variety of tasks that a highly functioning healthcare team needs to perform. For instance, clear communication is essential in ensuring admission forms are accurately completed, scheduling a follow-up appointment for the correct service or helping patients to understand their medical bills. Preparing all staff to use health literacy strategies will help everyone on the multidisciplinary team understand what is expected of them to do their best. This results in optimal daily operations so that patients will have the best overall experience.
When nonclinical workers’ communication skills are enhanced, the entire healthcare team benefits. Health Literacy Partners can provide educational offerings that will support and enhance the health literacy of your multidisciplinary health care team including your nonclinical staff. Reach out today to discuss how to best support and utilize your entire team!