Abstract
One of patient-centered care's most prominent aspects is providing patients with evidence-based medical information. This information is typically delivered in two primary forms: oral and written. However, it can also encompass various types of documentation, such as films, multimedia presentations, websites, social media, emails, electronic prescriptions, and other written formats (1,2).
A review of the existing research literature indicates that the most prevalent model for providing information to patients typically occurs during patient education. Hospital patient education mainly depends on pre-prepared pamphlets that offer background information, including disease definitions, device usage instructions, preparation for the operating room, and post-discharge care.
Another approach is information therapy, which entails prescribing information. This idea has been included in medical terminology since around 2002 (3). It represents a novel approach sometimes categorized under information counseling and consumer health information.
Health information can be disseminated to both the general public and patients. Providing health information to the general public falls under various categories, including health communication, public health education, health literacy, health information literacy, and knowledge translation through mass media and social media.
Information therapy aims to deliver targeted, evidence-based information to patients in clear and personalized language. This approach seeks to facilitate behavior change, enhance communication between the patient and therapist, ensure adherence to treatment protocols, foster understanding of the disease, and build trust in the treatment process. Additionally, it helps patients cope with their condition and the associated treatment while effectively managing therapeutic and nursing care through evidence-based information.
Therefore, it is anticipated that providing evidence-based information will enhance the management and control of the disease, improve treatment outcomes, strengthen doctor-patient relationships, and facilitate shared and informed decision-making. Although evidence shows that supplying information to patients is effective (4-6), some concerns exist regarding the potential adverse effects of this information on patients (7). Consequently, patients may refuse to continue treatment, exhibit non-adherence to medication, or experience psychological complications such as hypochondria and health anxiety (HA), as well as somatic symptom disorder. However, the existing literature indicates no complications or side effects linked to informational prescriptions (3).
Therefore, providing information to patients during health consultations, including prescribing information, drug brochures, and patient education pamphlets, should adhere to a defined structural framework and standardized guidelines. By respecting the patient's right to information, this approach prevents potential psychological harm caused by misinformation or the nocebo effect (8).
There is no established framework for prescribing information or preparing and delivering evidence-based information to patients within clinical guidelines and medical information protocols. This deficiency obstructs the implementation of clinical information consultations, clinical librarianship, the processes involved in prescribing and providing information to patients and health information communication. Ultimately, this oversight undermines the patient's right to access information in Iran.
This editorial advocates for developing a structured framework for prescribing and delivering information to patients as an essential aspect of the evidence-based health information system, aiming to reduce adverse effects resulting from misinformation.
This editorial emphasizes that access to a comprehensive guide and implementation strategies for prescribing and delivering information to patients can bridge the gap between patients' right to information and their fear of misinformation and the disclosure of unfavorable news. In conclusion, we need collaborative mixed-method research studies—both quantitative and qualitative—that involve information specialists and clinical experts to clarify and establish frameworks and standards for prescribing and delivering evidence-based information to patients.