Rethinking Readability Metrics in Medical Communication: Are Common Readability Formulas Still Useful?

Abstract

Readability is an important quality for medical communicators to consider in crafting information that is clear, easily understood, and enjoyable for any reader to read. Although readability formulas have been developed to help communicators craft readable information, common readability formulas have fundamental limitations that constrain their value. Also, with rapidly advancing technology, common readability formulas may be outdated. This article summarizes what readability really means, why readability is important for all readers, and the benefits and limitations of common readability formulas. This article also discusses how readability metrics might be advanced in the future and how humans will continue to be crucial in filling readability gaps.