Risk communication formats for low probability events: an exploratory study of patient preferences.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Clear communication about the possible outcomes of proposed medical interventions is an integral part of medical care. Despite its importance, there have been few studies comparing different formats for presenting probabilistic information to patients, especially when small probabilities are involved. The purpose of this study was to explore the potential usefulness of several new small-risk graphic communication formats.

Methods

Information about the likelihoods of cancer and cancer prevention associated with two hypothetical cancer screening programs were used to create an augmented bar chart, an augmented grouped icon display, a flow chart, and three paired combinations of these formats. In the study scenario, the baseline risk of cancer was 53 per 1,000 (5.3%)

SUBMITTER: Dolan JG 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2330036 | biostudies-literature | 2008 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature