Maximização do letramento em saúde e recordação do cliente em um contexto em desenvolvimento: perspectivas do fonoaudiólogo e do cliente

Abstract

Health literacy has been studied in several areas, but little discussed in the field of speech-language therapy. In general, the studies include intrinsic factors to the individual, environment and relationship between client and health professional**. In terms of individual factors, patients with communication disorders face greater challenges when they need to apply literacy skills in health, suggesting that the speech-language therapist should be particularly concerned about the health literacy of their clients. In terms of contextual factors, cultural and linguistic barriers and the client’s religious beliefs can determine if the changes needed for health promotion will be held. Relative to the relationship between client and speech-language therapist, if the customer feels inferior in the relationship, he will tend to have a passive attitude in the therapeutic process and will not ask the questions necessary for the understanding of care. According to the authors, the socio-cultural characteristics of South Africa and dialectal variation difficult the widespread of health information and interfere with the relationship between therapist and patient. In conformity with the literature, is consensus among health professionals of the region to provide written information to clients in order to assisting them to manage their own health after the consultations. In this surrounding context, the authors state that there are strategies of high and low technology to promote patient adherence to treatment and to improve understanding of the process. To supplement the reader’s understanding, they have provided in the appendices a framework with advantages and disadvantages of each strategy, including detailed explanations and demonstrations during the sessions; review of clinical information during the sessions and after consultations; illustrations; support for the family during the therapeutic process; telephone contact and intensive modules with reduced short-term goals. It is best to use them in combination for the authors. The aim of the present study was to investigate the issues around health literacy and the recall of health information from clients who have undergone speech-language therapy in public health units in Cape Town and also how can these issues be overcome, focusing on clients with dysphagia, voice disorders (including laryngectomy) and cleft lip and/or palate. The authors conducted an exploratory study with a focus on speech-language therapist and their clients who had received treatment during the six months prior to data collection. They were recruited from two hospitals of the public health system of Cape Town in South Africa. Data were collected through four focus groups discussions and qualitatively analysed. It was identified five themes and 13 subthemes from the