Crystal Clear Health Literacy Awards 2011- Helping Your Patients Understand

DUBLIN, November 15, 2010 - The MSD/NALA Health Literacy Initiative is delighted to announce the
launch of the fourth Crystal Clear MSD Health Literacy Awards. Continuing to
gain momentum since their inaugural launch in 2007 the awards are designed to
recognise and reward excellence in health literacy in the healthcare sector.
Health Literacy is increasingly being recognised as an important issue and is
a person's ability to understand medical terms and basic health information,
having the knowledge to understand their options and make informed decisions
about their own health.

Anyone interested in entering the awards is encouraged to visit the
awards section on www.crystalclearawards.ie

The website provides you with all the information and tools needed to
enter the awards such as an entry tips video from Chairperson, Dr Gerardine
Doyle, information on what the judges are looking for, the entry format,
awards categories, details about the judging panel and how to enter. Entries
must be received no later than 12.00 noon on Friday 28th January 2011 and can
be made online or using the downloadable application form on
www.crystalclearawards.ie

"Over 50% of Irish adults are affected in some way by literacy
difficulties. We all play a role in helping patients understand the array of
complex health information and treatment decisions they are faced with. In
today's busy environment it is difficult to take the time from our schedules
but I encourage you to consider how you can contribute to your patients
understanding of the health information you give them." Commented Ms Inez
Bailey, Director, National Adult Literacy Agency.

The awards are open to anyone working in the healthcare sector whether
you are a receptionist in a GP surgery, a pharmacist, a catering manager in a
hospital, a doctor, a nurse or a patient advocate. The Irish Medical Times is
once again returning as media partner to the awards. The award categories
include:

    A. Best Project in General Practice
    B. Best Project in a Hospital
    C. Best Project in the Community or in a Social Setting
    D. Best Health Promotion Project
    E. Best Health Communication through Journalism

Contact: Nicola Fullam - +353(0)1-2998707 / +353(0)86-0441609 and Ciara O'Rourke - +353(0)1-2998706/ +353(0)86-388-7004