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intellectual disability:

People with intellectual disability (ID) often face challenges in healthcare due to slower processing, varying levels of comprehension, and lower literacy.

These barriers can make it difficult to process medical advice, communicate symptoms, or understand and follow treatment plans.

Effective communication is essential for both clinicians and patients in healthcare. When healthcare providers feel confident in their ability to communicate with individuals with intellectual disability, it fosters trust, improves patient outcomes, and ensures that everyone is on the same page.

For the patient, feeling included in their care builds confidence, reduces anxiety, and enhances their ability to participate in decisions that affect their health and well-being.

Improving communication with individuals with intellectual disability can be achieved through small, thoughtful changes.

Asking someone how they need you to communicate, using clear and simple language, checking for understanding, and using visual aids or gestures can make a significant difference in patient care. These steps help bridge the gap and create a more inclusive and supportive healthcare experience.

  • Learn easy ways to simplify language: Use clear, everyday terms instead of medical jargon.
  • Create easy processes for patients to communicate their support needs prior to appointments. This gives the practice a heads up someone with ID is coming for an appointment and can remind you of their support needs.
  • Allow more time: Extending appointment times gives patients a chance to process information and ask questions.
  • Visual aids: There are endless amounts of social stories or instructional resources online that use images or diagrams to explain treatments and making it easier to understand and remember. Many of these resources use images and words, they provide you with a script to use.
  • Structured follow-ups: Utilise management plan MBS items to Send appointment reminders and summaries of visits in easy-to-read formats to reinforce key information.
  • Collaborate with caregivers: Involve family members or support workers to ensure better communication and adherence to care plans.

These adjustments create a more inclusive environment, helping patients feel more understood and confident in managing their health, while also improving the quality of care delivered by clinicians.