Assessing signage in your health service

The structure of this assessment tool is influenced by D DeWalt et al., Improve Written Communication Assessment Tool, Health Literacy Universal Precautions Toolkit, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, Rockville MD, 2014, viewed 21 July 2014, www.ahrq.gov/professionals/quality-patient-safety/quality-resources/tools/literacy-toolkit/index.html

Select one answer that most accurately describes your Service:

Doing well: Our service is doing this well
Could be better: Our service is doing this, but could do it better
Not doing: Our service is not doing this
Not sure or N/A: I don't know the answer, or it is not applicable to our service

No	Question	Doing well	Could be better	Not doing	Not sure or N/A
1.	The name of the service is clearly displayed on the outside of the building.
2.	There are sufficient and appropriate signs to direct consumers to the main entrance.
3.	Signs near and at reception meet the needs of consumers, including those with low health literacy.
4.	Internal and external signs use large and clearly visible lettering.
5.	A sign clearly tells consumers what to do and where to go when they first arrive.
6.	Signs are displayed throughout the facility to direct consumers to locations like waiting areas, reception, toilets and service areas.
7.	Alternative visual cues, like coloured lines, are used to help people find their way within the facility.
8.	Office signs use everyday words like 'Walk-In' and 'Health Centre'. If medical terms are used, plain English descriptions are provided as well, for example: 'Pathology (including blood tests)'.
9.	Office signs are written in English and in the primary languages of the population being served or include standard symbols.
10.	Symbols and graphics are used consistently on signs throughout the facility.
11.	Walls and notice boards are not cluttered with printed notices and posters. It is easy for consumers to pick out the important information.

January 2019

Department of Health