Abstract
Patient education is an integral part of every health care interaction. It is one of the most powerful tools that a health care provider can use to influence positive changes in health and wellness for patients. Whether the patient requires a diagnostic study, lifestyle changes, or a medication, the provider can offer the necessary education to the patient. Effective patient education provides patients with the information they need to make informed decisions regarding their health. Proper teaching must go beyond simple instructions, such as how to take a medication correctly. Patient education allows us to address disease prevention, safety, nutrition, and physical activity. It also serves to manage expectations for procedures or future visits. Perhaps most importantly, the process of patient education creates an environment that facilitates relationship building, increases patient trust, and builds rapport between the patient and provider. Patients have an expectation that they will be fully informed about their health and treatment plans. The challenge then becomes how to do so effectively. In this chapter, we will address barriers to effective patient education and how to structure a visit to overcome these barriers.