In the age of digital healthcare, patients increasingly access their medical test results through electronic medical records. While this transparency offers convenience, it also brings a challenge: many medical reports are not written with patients in mind.

A recent study led by Dr. Cathryn Lapedis from the University of Michigan highlights the need for patient-centered pathology reports to help patients better understand their diagnoses and reduce unnecessary worry.

The Problem with Standard Medical Reports

Traditional pathology reports are often written for clinical specialists, using complex medical terminology that can confuse patients. For example, terms like “prostatic adenocarcinoma” might appear in reports, but a simpler, patient-friendly term such as “prostate cancer” is rarely used.

When patients read these reports without guidance, misunderstandings can lead to unnecessary anxiety, or worse, they might fail to grasp critical information about their health.

The Study: Patient-Centered Pathology Reports

Dr. Lapedis and her team conducted a study involving 2,238 adults aged 55-84 with no history of prostate cancer. Participants were asked to review one of three types of reports:

1. A standard University report.
2. A standard VA report.
3. A patient-centered pathology report designed with simplified language and a clear format.

The results were striking:

• Only 39% of participants reviewing standard reports could accurately identify that the report showed cancer.
• In contrast, 93% of those reviewing patient-centered reports correctly identified their diagnosis.
• Patient-centered reports also helped participants align their level of worry with their actual risk level, reducing undue anxiety.

Why Patient-Centered Reports Matter

Clear medical reports are not just about improving patient understanding—they can also enhance trust and communication between patients and healthcare providers.

A patient-centered pathology report simplifies complex medical jargon and presents information in a way that is easier to understand. This empowers patients to take an active role in their healthcare decisions while minimizing confusion and stress.

Recommendations for Hospitals and Patients

• For Healthcare Systems: Dr. Lapedis recommends that hospitals include patient-centered pathology reports alongside standard reports to improve patient understanding.
• For Patients: Before undergoing a test, speak with your clinician about what terms to look for in your report. Always follow up with your doctor for clarification and guidance on the results.

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