1. Universal Communications Principles – Print Materials Simplify & avoid duplicative paperwork Offer to read aloud & explain Check reading level (ideal 5 th -6 th grade) Plain language principles Show or draw simple pictures Focus only on key points Emphasize what the patient should do Minimize information about anatomy & physiology Underline or Circle key points

2. Reader – Friendly Print Materials Simple words (1-2 syllables) Short sentences (4-6 words) Short paragraphs (2-3 sentences) No medical jargon Headings and bullets Lots of white space

3. Are Patient Education Materials User Friendly? Check reading level (tools, spelling, options, readability) Aim for <8 th grade Ask following 5 questions

4. Is the Layout User-Friendly?

5. Do Illustrations Convey the Message?

6. Is the Message Clear?

7. Is the Information Manageable?

8. “Meant for Me”