February 10, 2025

Enhancing Patient Autonomy and Safety

For those who are visually impaired or blind, braille and large print can significantly improve patient satisfaction in hospitals and other healthcare facilities by enhancing accessibility and promoting independence. Its effectiveness, however, hinges on availability. Providing accessible documents and other written information can also aid in managing treatment independently and ensuring HIPAA/privacy adherence.

Medication Information and Instructions

One of the most critical applications of accessibility in healthcare is providing accessible medication information. Labels and medication instructions can – and should – be provided in braille and large print to allow visually impaired patients to independently manage their medications. This includes crucial details like:

• Drug names
• Dosages
• Usage instructions
• Drug interactions

Providing this information in an accessible form helps prevent medication errors and empowers patients to take control of their treatment.

Medical Documents and Forms

Horizons for the Blind offers healthcare facilities and physician offices braille and large print transcription services for important medical documents and forms. This includes:

• Consent forms
• Medical history questionnaires
• Discharge instructions
• Educational materials about conditions and treatments
• Billing statements

Having these documents available in braille and large print allows visually impaired patients to review and fill out paperwork independently, protecting their privacy and autonomy.

Signage

Braille signage is essential for helping visually impaired patients navigate healthcare facilities and physician offices and is required by the ADA.

Unfortunately, this signage is typically installed by non-braille readers who cannot verify its accuracy. Horizons can review this signage to ensure that the braille is correct and placed properly in your facility.

Clear braille signage improves accessibility and helps patients feel more comfortable moving through hospitals and clinics independently.

Healthcare Education Materials

Healthcare providers can offer patient education materials in braille and large print formats to ensure visually impaired patients have equal access to important health information, including:

• Disease management
• Preventive care guidelines
• Post-procedure instructions
• Lifestyle and nutrition recommendations

Braille remains a critical tool for visually impaired individuals navigating the complex world of healthcare. Far from being obsolete, braille is evolving alongside technology to ensure equal access to vital medical information.

For more information on this and other accessible services provided by Horizons for the Blind, contact our office today for a free, no-obligation consultation. As members of the Braille Authority of North America (BANA), Horizons has been instrumental in establishing many of the requirements for accessible documentation.

Offering fast turnaround with no minimum quantities required.

Category: Resources