Communicating and understanding laboratory test results: What matters?

Abstract

Background: This is the first known investigation to identify specific patient characteristics and the relationship to their understanding of laboratory test results. The study examined patient characteristics influencing their level of understanding of laboratory test results reported to them by physicians or health care professionals. Methods: Questionnaires were distributed to 143 patients. Results: The authors' findings suggest that patients want information on and an understanding of their laboratory results. Demographic variables and who explained the results to the patients did not significantly influence the findings. Conclusion: Patients reported that understanding the purpose of their tests and their relationships to their conditions would increase their satisfaction with the health care system.