Patient Understanding of Risk: A Survey of Probability Literacy

The central concept of informed consent is communication the chance a successful outcome. It not easy or intuitive to map population-derived risk estimate an individual. We tested patient comprehension basic probability concepts needed for consent. Patients (n=478) completed five questions testing estimates relevant To avoid patients associating them with their clinical care, posed non-medical scenarios. Correct answers varied from 36% Q3 83% Q5. A total 64% could say that 1:10 higher frequency than 1:100 1:1,000. Age and ethnicity were independent predictors overall score, whereas sex socioeconomic decile not. Māori/Pasifika scored significantly worse Pakeha/European (total score 3.2 vs 3.6, p<0.001). Asian (2.6 3.2, p<0.001) even though patients’ was highest all groups; this may have been language issue. Many do sufficiently grasp understand Increased be achieved by combination written documents, unhurried verbal explanations, time questions. Risk presented as “two in 1,000 serious complication” better comprehended if spelt out fully “out every undergoing procedure, around two experience complication”. Communication should culturally appropriate; and, preferred patient.