Learning how to be (a) patient: visual analysis of accessible health information leaflets for people with intellectual disabilities

Abstract

Creation of jargon-free Easy Read health texts, incorporating carefully chosen words and images, is promoted as a way of removing health access barriers for people with intellectual disabilities. Using a social semiotic framework, this article explores the social construction of the patient with intellectual disabilities within a sample of adapted health texts, focusing on the visual images used. Images were coded and analysed according to dimensions suggested by Kress and van Leeuwen’s work on ‘visual grammar’. Images highlight the inclusion of patients with intellectual disabilities in mainstream healthcare settings. However, these patients are depicted as being inserted into somewhat idealized healthcare routines that are pre-determined and micro-managed through to completion. Consideration of risks and choices associated with healthcare use are downplayed. The article concludes that the care of patients with intellectual disabilities continues to constitute potential trouble for mainstream healthcare providers, rather than being an expected aspect of everyday practice.

Keywords:

• Intellectual disabilities
• accessible health information
• Easy Read
• visual analysis
• social semiotics

Notes

1. Liverpool Community Health NHS Trust (no date) Be Clear on Breast Cancer.

2. Hampshire Partnership NHS Trust (no date) Going for a Blood Test.

3. Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Trust (2007) Having an MRI Scan.

4. Liverpool Community Health NHS Trust (no date) Be Clear on Breast Cancer.

5. Rotherham Community Health Services (2010) The Primary Ear Care: How to Use Ear Drops.

6. Hampshire Partnership NHS Trust (no date) Going for a Blood Test.

7. Yeovil District Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (no date) Having a Cannula Put In.

8. Hampshire Partnership NHS Trust (no date) Going for a Blood Test

9. Yeovil District Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (no date) Having a Blood Test.

10. Rotherham, Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (2012) Going to the Dentist: A Photo Journey for People with Learning Disabilities.

11. The Ipswich Hospitals NHS Trust (no date) Having Radiotherapy.

12. The Ipswich Hospital NHS Trust (no date) Radiotherapy: Treatment.