Why do single event probabilities confuse patients? Statements of frequency are better for communicating risk (2012)
Authors
Abstract
In sum, single event probabilities confuse patients because they do not specify a reference class. Good communication of risk requires a clear statement of what a probability refers to. Although necessary, this step alone is not sufficient, given that some patients misinterpret risks even when a reference class is given.10 With the advance of personalised medicine and genetic counselling, doctors and patients will be overwhelmed by probabilities for individual patients. Frequency statements can help reduce potential confusion because they always refer to a class and are easily understood.
Bibliographic entry
Gigerenzer, G., & Galesic, M. (2012). Why do single event probabilities confuse patients? Statements of frequency are better for communicating risk. BMJ, 344:e245. doi:10.1136/bmj.e245 (Full text)
Miscellaneous
| Publication year | 2012 | |
|---|---|---|
| Document type: | Article | |
| Publication status: | Published | |
| External URL: | http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmj.e245 View | |
| Categories: | HealthProbability | |
| Keywords: |