Structuring and presenting healthcare information that aligns with a patient’s level of understanding can help patients achieve optimal outcomes. Verbal communication strategies such as “teach back” and “Ask Me 3®” programs and written strategies address opportunities identified in the event reports and may help improve patient understanding and engagement in their care.

​The largest number of event reports (16.6%, n = 44 of 265) involved patients 51 to 60 years old. See Figure for the age distribution from newborns to 94 years.

Figure. Potential Health Literacy-Related Events Involving Patient Misunderstanding as reported through Pennsylvania Patient Safety Reporting System, By Patient Age (Years), 2005 through 2014 (N = 265)