Medical staff are wearing new badges which will affect the way they speak to patients

Dr Rodulson said: “Much like the ‘Hello my name is’ and LGBT+ rainbow badges worn by staff in the NHS, I wanted to create something that health workers could wear to show patients that they were committed to avoiding medical jargon when speaking to them.

“There is a wealth of evidence to support the importance of using plain language in health settings.” Such, she explains, can decrease anxiety and increase patient empowerment.

However, she added, “we can’t detract from the great work already being done around communication by NHS staff, especially during these stressful times.”

Dr Rodulson said that it is also important not to go too far and end up either oversimplifying or condescending to patients. She says: “This is a delicate balance. Getting to know your patient really helps.

“What you are often taught in medical school is to start your consultation by asking the patient how much they know, before jumping in yourself.”

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Article source: https://www.express.co.uk/news/science/1711058/nhs-jargon-free-zone-project-health-news