Plain language summaries of publications (PLSPs) have heralded a significant shift in medical communication. These documents are becoming a bridge between scientific evidence and non-expert audiences, including patients, caregivers, and the general public. The impact of PLSPs depends not only on how clearly they are written, but also on how easily they can be found and understood by their intended audience. PLSPs are rapidly evolving to become more visual and interactive, making them more accessible to a wider range of audiences. We believe that the following four aspects will shape the future of plain language communication of medical evidence:
1. Delivering content using multiple formats
Initially, plain language summaries were predominately text-based and published either alongside journal articles or as standalone summaries. However, nonexpert audiences today engage through various channels, often preferring visual or multimedia formats over text-heavy content. Therefore, to enhance understanding, accessibility, and engagement among nonexpert readers, different formats are needed.
- Visual formats – infographics, graphical abstracts, and illustrated storyboards can be used to simplify and present complex information in an easy-to-follow layout. These make research more accessible and help readers retain information and take more informed decisions about their health.
- Multimedia – videos, animations, interactive PDFs, or podcasts combine text, graphics, and clickable elements to communicate information. These formats make research more engaging and easier to understand, especially for individuals with different literacy levels or disabilities.
2. Using generative AI to assist plain language writing
Emerging evidence suggests that AI-assisted plain language writing can augment the PLSP creation process without a loss in quality. This approach can help organizations to generate PLSPs more efficiently. However, like any AI solution, concerns remain about scientific accuracy and potential misinformation; therefore, human review remains essential to ensure PLSPs are reliable and will be trusted by their intended audiences.
3. More involvement of patients in PLSP development and co-creation
Engaging patients in the development of patient communication materials helps ensure that the content is clear, understandable, and relevant. Their perspectives help focus on outcomes and experiences that matter most. Patient authors, particularly those affiliated with patient organizations or advocacy groups, are well-positioned to co-create PLSPs and provide guidance on their accessibility. By including patient authors early in the publication process, sponsors and researchers can build trust, transparency, and engagement.
4. Greater accessibility and digital dissemination
As PLSPs become more common, ensuring their intended audiences can find them will be a key focus for sponsors and publishers. Centralized access points such as the PLS Finder, journal collections, or open-access repositories will play an essential role in helping patients and health care professionals locate PLSPs from multiple sources.
Dissemination is expected to extend beyond traditional scientific platforms. Future PLSPs are likely to appear on clinical trial registries, patient advocacy platforms, and social media channels to maximize their reach and accessibility. Digital dissemination strategies should include options for users to subscribe to updates and access summaries in multiple languages. However, it remains important to consider how individuals with limited internet access or digital literacy can get access to their content.
Conclusions
With advances in digital formats, AI-assisted plain language writing, patient involvement in development and co-creation, and wider digital dissemination, scientific communication is becoming more engaging and accessible to a wider audience. These developments are an important step toward greater transparency and a patient-centered clinical research environment.
Krystelis’s plain language team has helped sponsors develop plain language content in different formats. Our Krystelis AI tools can further augment and streamline this process. To learn more about our services, contact us at info@krystelis.com.