Report layout | Avoid large blocks of text Use headings (ie, ‘call-and-response’ format) to direct patients to key information elements
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Language and text display | Use consistent terms or phrasing Keep sentences simple and brief Draw attention to key terms using font styles or colour
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Content management | Include negative findings State when tests have not been run, are not relevant or may still be pending Provide links to vetted external resources for topics that patients may be likely to explore further
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Information flow | Move from broad concepts (eg, diagnosis, cancer) to more nuanced concepts (eg, margin status) Provide a ‘bottom line’ to summarise key findings from the report
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