Beyond making health information easier to understand, plain language helps flatten the power hierarchy, reducing miscommunication and stress and building trust. By avoiding complex jargon that signals status and by giving patients information in a way they can understand, you’re inviting them to be active participants in making decisions about their healthcare. You’re centering their needs and experiences and giving them autonomy and control, which is the goal of informed consent. You’re making the healthcare interaction less intimidating and fostering a relationship where the patient will be more comfortable asking questions.
This reminds me of Malcolm Gladwell’s insights in his book Blink, where he highlights how doctors who exhibit empathy and active listening are significantly less likely to face malpractice lawsuits. The key lies in the way these doctors communicate—they use language that patients already understand, avoiding complicated jargon and unnecessary medicalese. This approach does more than just clarify information; it subtly shifts the dynamic between doctor and patient by breaking down traditional power hierarchies in healthcare. When healthcare professionals speak in familiar terms, they create a shared language that bridges the gap between expertise and experience. This not only empowers patients by making them feel heard and respected but also enhances trust and openness. It invites patients to participate actively in their care decisions, which is fundamental to informed consent and better health outcomes. Ultimately, using plain language becomes an act of respect and partnership rather than a simple communication tactic. It personifies the idea that healthcare is not about dominance but collaboration, helping patients feel more comfortable, confident, and in control during vulnerable moments.