‘Breaking It Down’: Patient-Clinician Communication and Prenatal Care Among African American Women of Low and Higher Literacy

The Article in Brief

'Breaking It Down': Patient-Clinician Communication and Prenatal Care Among African American Women of Low and Higher Literacy

Ian Bennett, MD, PhD, and colleagues

Background The ability to read is an important part of the ability to understand medical information and make health decisions. This study explored whether low reading levels are an obstacle to getting prenatal care (medical care for pregnancy).

What This Study Found Interviews with 202 low-income African American women found that communication with clinicians, not reading level, is the most important factor in whether women get adequate care during pregnancy. An open flow of information between patient and doctor promotes prenatal care, while unsuccessful communication makes women less likely to come to prenatal care visits. Clear communication requires the ability to break down information into understandable pieces.

Implications

• Clinicians who care for pregnant women should work to communicate clearly, including breaking information down into smaller, understandable pieces. This specific skill should be taught in efforts to improve clinicians� communication skills.
• Further research is needed to determine whether a focus on this approach will improve rates of prenatal care.