What is the health literacy of
patients with chronic kidney disease?
Generally, 9 out 10 adults
lack the skills necessary to prevent disease or manage their health, but what
about those with a chronic disease? A recent study
published in the Australian Internal Medicine Journal aimed to determine
patients’ understanding of chronic kidney disease when first presenting to a
kidney specialist.
Two hundred and ten newly
referred patients to a nephrology clinic were surveyed with open-ended
questions about their understanding of CKD causes, symptoms and management. The
average age of participants was 66.5 and 50.5% were female. 82% were referred
by their primary care provider and 29% had previously seen a nephrologist. The results were:
- 16% of patients were unsure why they were referred
- 40% were unsure about what causes CKD
- 51% were unsure of how to manage CKD
- 82% reported unsatisfactory education from their primary care physician.
If you are struggling with
ways to engage and educate your patients – mHealth Games wants to help!
Consider Fight Back, a short game to educate patients and caregivers on the
basics chronic kidney disease.
Click on the picture below to play:
Fight Back
Chronic kidney disease does not have to prevent you from being a superhero! This quick training covers the basics of kidney disease and what you can do to fight back. Are you ready to join TEAM KIDNEY?
