Communication Breakdown
The health-care industry is arguably one of the most advanced business sectors in the United States. Despite this, the number of medical error-related deaths continues to escalate and a complex health-care system still compromises patients’ quality of life. As a result, society is involved in an ongoing blame game with no conclusion in sight. But evidence points to functional health literacy, which the Council of Scientific Affairs of the American Medical Association defines as “the ability to read and comprehend prescription bottles, appointment slips and the other essential related materials required to successfully function as a patient.” In addition, prescription fraud continues to threaten the credibility of the health-care system. Manufacturers and distributors of health-care forms can use these weaknesses in the system as opportunities to drive profitable margins for their businesses by introducing comprehensive forms to the market.