In the evolving landscape of health care, patient education has become a cornerstone
of effective treatment and recovery. With the government's focus on Digital India,
electronic handouts are increasingly important. This article examines the use of electronic
patient handouts versus traditional printed materials, highlighting the role of quick
response (QR) codes in enhancing access to health information.
The Importance of Patient Health Education
The Importance of Patient Health Education
Patient health education is essential for empowering individuals to make informed
decisions about their health. Effective education not only improves health literacy
but also enhances patient engagement, leading to better health outcomes.[1] Research indicates that patients who receive comprehensive educational materials
are more likely to adhere to treatment plans and experience improved health outcomes.[2]
[3]
The Role of QR Codes in Patient Education
The Role of QR Codes in Patient Education
By simply scanning a quick response (QR) code with a smartphone, patients can access
a wealth of information tailored to their specific health needs.[4] This technology is particularly beneficial in clinical settings, where patients
often wait for appointments.[5] For instance, a patient who had skin grafting done could scan a code that provides
information on caring for a skin grafted area.
How Was This Done?
The patient education frequently asked questions (FAQs) are hosted on a free blogger
provided by Google. The blog's URL is used to generate a free QR code from qrfy.com.
This QR code is then downloaded, printed, and displayed in our outpatient department
(OPD). Patients or caregivers can scan the QR code with their mobile camera or Google
lens to access the blog directly ([Fig. 1]).
Fig. 1 Quick response (QR) code for scanning patient education.
Benefits of Electronic Handouts versus Printed Handouts
Benefits of Electronic Handouts versus Printed Handouts
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Accessibility: Electronic handouts can be accessed anytime and from anywhere, allowing patients
to review information as needed. Printed materials, on the other hand, are prone to
being lost or forgotten.
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Environmental impact: Using electronic handouts helps significantly reduce paper waste.
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Cost-effectiveness: Creating digital content can be free if done on a no-cost platform, avoiding the
ongoing expenses of printing and distributing paper materials.
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Customization: Health care providers can easily adapt digital content to suit a patient's specific
condition, preferences, or literacy level, ensuring the information remains relevant
and comprehensible. Furthermore, updates to digital content can be made without the
need for reprinting.
