The Ethics of Simplicity

Professionals who write medical information are more powerful than most realize. Essentially, they function as translators who take complicated, ambiguous, and ever-changing health information and reduce it to its most simple form. Patients may make life-and-death decisions based on how well these writers do this job.  

Helen Osborne coined the term "ethics of simplicty" to convey the many choices writers make as they translate health information into plain language. In this presentation, she frames the issues many writers struggle with and facilitates a discussion about solutions. This presentation works well as the conclusion to Helen's other workshops. It can also stand alone as a half-day session for experienced writers.

Topics include:

  • The power of medical writers
  • What gets lost when simplifying information
  • Case scenario and small group discussions
  • Discussion about strategies and next steps

Helen Osborne is an expert who speaks professionally. She is long-time member of the National Speakers Association (NSA) and a board member of NSA's chapter in New England. Helen is an experienced and dynamic speaker who makes health literacy concepts come alive with stories, pictures, examples, and humor. She not only teaches lots of how-to information but also inspires audiences to make a long-lasting health literacy difference.

Helen takes the time to learn what makes each audience special. She will: 

  • Tailor presentations to your format. Whether you are looking for a 1-hour keynote, half- or full-day workshop, panel presentation, or round-table discussion, Helen will adapt her presentation to meet your needs. Groups often combine formats such as a keynote followed by a workshop, or a workshop followed by a round-table discussion.
  • Focus on your specific needs. Helen takes the time to learn about you and your organization. This way, she can tailor presentations to meet your specific learning needs. Helen does this by asking groups to complete a Pre-Program Questionnaire (PPQ) and then talking with 2 - 3 people likely to attend. 
  • Provide a master copy of her handout. Helen's handouts are much more than just a collection of slides. Her handouts are filled with valuable information that participants can, and do, refer to long after Helen's presentations end.
  • Offer, or help arrange for, discounts when purchasing multiple copies of her books: Health Literacy from A to Z: Practical Ways to Communicate Your Health Message; Health Literacy Handbook: The Event Planning Guide for Health Literacy Advocates; Podcasting Guide: A Little About Technology, A Lot About Getting Started With Audio Interviews. 
  • Work with you to obtain continuing education credits. This includes providing a timed agenda with specific behavioral objectives, along with Helen's CV.
  • Help promote your event. Helen will gladly review your marketing materials and be available for radio and television interviews.
  • Follow-up and offer ongoing support. Helen not only introduces ideas and skills but also helps participants implement what they learned. One way she does this is with a a complementary follow-up conference call for workshop attendees.

"Thank you for the wonderful presentation about ethics that you gave at our recent AMWA meeting. It was a thought-provoking and engaging discussion for the members on a very important topic."Diane Bell, ScD, President New England chapter of AMWA (American Medical Writers Association)

To learn more and schedule a presentation, email Helen Osborne at Helen@healthliteracy.com or call 508-653-1199.