Charnego, Madalyn
(2023)
Analyzing readability and suitability of webpages related to genetic counseling and genetic testing.
Master's Thesis, University of Pittsburgh.
(Unpublished)
Abstract
Background and Objective Web-based resources are often used by patients referred for genetic counseling to gather information prior to their appointment; however, many health care materials are written in excess of recommended reading levels. Little is known about their readability and suitability . This study aims to determine the readability and suitability of commonly accessed webpages and if there is a difference in these metrics depending on which type of organization (i.e., government, non-profit organization) authored the webpage.
Methods Twenty webpages were identified using Google. Searches of the questions “What is a genetic counselor?”, “What is genetic testing”, “Why do I need genetic testing?”, and “What happens at a genetic counseling appointment?” were completed and the top 5 pages were from each. These webpages were then analyzed using Readable.com (Flesch-Kincaid and Standardized Measure of Gobbledygook scores) and the Suitability Assessment of Materials (SAM). To complete the SAM analysis, two reviewers completed the tool for each webpage. Sponsor type was determined based on the primary goal of the group that supported or published the webpage.
Results The average Flesch-Kincaid scores for the websites were between 8th and 12th grade. The average Standardized Measure of Gobbledygook scores were between 11th and 14th grade. The majority of webpages rated as adequate on the SAM scale.
Conclusion The webpages assessed through this study were above the recommended reading grade level of 6th to 8th grade. The webpages and were noted to be adequately suitable for the general population regarding the presentation and accessibility of information. The results of this study highlight the continued need for evaluation of patient resources, especially those on the internet, to ensure they are meeting the needs of the rising number of individuals being referred to genetic services. Results of this study further support the work being generated through Healthy People 2030 and the continued public health efforts to reduce health disparities related to low health literacy.
Share
| Citation/Export: |
|
| Social Networking: |
|
Details
| Item Type: |
University of Pittsburgh ETD
|
| Status: |
Unpublished |
| Creators/Authors: |
|
| ETD Committee: |
|
| Date: |
9 May 2023 |
| Date Type: |
Publication |
| Defense Date: |
7 April 2023 |
| Approval Date: |
9 May 2023 |
| Submission Date: |
25 April 2023 |
| Access Restriction: |
No restriction; Release the ETD for access worldwide immediately. |
| Number of Pages: |
72 |
| Institution: |
University of Pittsburgh |
| Schools and Programs: |
School of Public Health > Human Genetics |
| Degree: |
MS - Master of Science |
| Thesis Type: |
Master's Thesis |
| Refereed: |
Yes |
| Uncontrolled Keywords: |
Genetic counseling
Genetic testing
Readability
Suitability
Health literacy
Webpages |
| Date Deposited: |
10 May 2023 02:47 |
| Last Modified: |
10 May 2023 02:47 |
| URI: |
http://d-scholarship.pitt.edu/id/eprint/44719 |
Metrics
Monthly Views for the past 3 years
Plum Analytics
Actions (login required)
 |
View Item |
![[feed]](/images/feed-icon-32x32.png){kind=icon}