Information needs and preferences of low and high literacy consumers for decisions about colorectal cancer screening: utilizing a linguistic model

Smith, Sian K, Trevena, Lyndal, Nutbeam, Donald, Barratt, Alexandra and McCaffery, Kirsten J (2008) Information needs and preferences of low and high literacy consumers for decisions about colorectal cancer screening: utilizing a linguistic model. Health Expectations, 11 (2), 123-136. (doi:10.1111/j.1369-7625.2008.00489.x).

Abstract

Context The use of written decision aids (DAs) in clinical practice has
proliferated. However, few DAs have been developed for low literacy
users, despite this group having low knowledge about healthcare and
lacking involvement in health decisions.
Objective To explore the information needs and understanding of adults
with varying literacy in relation to colorectal cancer screening, and
to consider their responses to two versions of a decision aid.
Participants Thirty-three men and women aged 45-74 years were recruited
from Adult Basic Education classes (n = 17) and University Continuing
Education programs (n = 16).
Methods We used qualitative methods (in-depth, semi-structured
interviews) to compare and contrast the views of adults with lower and
higher literacy levels, to gain a better understanding of how people
with lower literacy value and interpret specific DA content and
components; and determine whether needs and preferences are specific to
lower literacy groups or generic across the broad literacy spectrum.
Results Regardless of literacy perspective, participants'
interpretations of the DA were shaped by their prior knowledge and
expectations, as well as their values and preferences. This influenced
perceptions of the DAs role in supporting informed decision making. A
linguistic theoretical model was applied to interpret the findings.
This facilitated considerations beyond the traditional focus on the
readability of materials.
Conclusion Decision aids developers may find it useful to apply
alternative approaches (linguistic) when creating DAs for consumers of
varying literacy.

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