Readability, content, and quality of online patient education materials on preeclampsia

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the readability, content, and quality of patient education materials addressing preeclampsia. Methods: Websites of U.S. obstetrics and gynecology residency programs were searched for patient education materials. Readability, content, and quality were assessed. A one-sample t-test was used to evaluate mean readability level compared with the recommended 6th grade reading level. Results: Mean readability levels were higher using all indices (p < 0.001). Content was variable with good website understandability, but poor actionability. Conclusions: The mean readability was above the recommended 6th grade reading level. The content, readability, and actionability of preeclampsia patient education materials should be improved.