The End of Scientific Jargon in Healthcare
Patients are often presented with medical information that is technically accurate but difficult to understand. Lab results, visit summaries, and clinical notes frequently contain specialized terms like HbA1c, erythrocyte, or edema, which serve professionals well but alienate many patients. This creates a communication gap that undermines trust, autonomy, and informed decision-making.
The Problem of Early Diagnosis
In healthcare ethics, recent developments in artificial intelligence demand renewed attention to how diagnostic information is communicated, particularly in emotionally and ethically charged scenarios. Consider the following clinical context: a patient sits in a physician’s office, confronted with a moment of profound uncertainty. A serious diagnosis is delivered, and with it, a cascade of decisions, emotions, and implications for future planning.