Effective Communication of Pathology Results to Requesting Practitioners and Consumers

Information Preferences and Needs

Page last updated: 14 May 2013

The idea of receiving supplementary information was very acceptable. Participants highly appreciated receiving supplementary information, which could be taken home and shared with others on receipt of pathology results. They felt that they did not currently leave their doctor with enough information.

Participants were also keen for extra information to assist them with managing their diets and exercise and they still needed more information in detail such as:

  • how to avoid complications,
  • how to take medicine, when, how much, etc.
  • what to do in order to keep controlling their sugar levels,
  • what to eat in the evening/before bed time and at other times of day, as well as a list of food types that increase sugar levels
In addition, most participants preferred a combination of verbal information (practical session) in detail from the professionals, supported by written information. Some preferred to receive DVDs to watch privately at home.

In terms of medications, participants felt that medication was the doctor’s domain and that this type of supplementary information did not assist in medication management although it might remind them to take the medication prescribed. Participants saw supplementary material as only useful for diet and exercise management.