5 Ways To Make Health Information More Engaging for Patients

In busy healthcare settings, communication can make all the difference to how patients feel. Clear, accessible information helps visitors understand their care, follow procedures correctly, and feel reassured while they wait. But in many clinics and hospitals, important messages are easily overlooked due to visual clutter, outdated posters, or confusing layouts.

Engaging health information displays help patients to absorb key details, build confidence in your service, and reduce the number of questions directed at front-desk staff.

1. Keep It Clear and Easy to Read

Simplicity is key. Use plain language, short sentences, and clear headings. Choose high-contrast colours and large, legible fonts so everyone can read your messages easily.

Avoid overcrowding posters or noticeboards with too much text. A clean layout with focused messages will always have a greater impact.

Tip: Use your brand colours sparingly to maintain consistency, without compromising readability.

2. Use a Mix of Formats to Hold Attention

Different people absorb information in different ways, so combining digital displays, posters, and leaflets ensures your messages reach everyone.

• Digital screens are ideal for sharing rotating messages, from health campaigns to appointment updates.
• Wall-mounted acrylic panels present long-term information neatly and hygienically.
• Leaflet displays give visitors something tangible to take home and read at their own pace.

By varying formats, you create visual interest while reinforcing key information consistently.

3. Organise Your Display Area Thoughtfully

Location matters. Place health information displays where patients naturally pause. This might include waiting areas, corridors, near lifts, and reception desks. Group related materials together so it’s easy to find what’s relevant (for example, flu vaccination leaflets beside winter wellness posters).

Consider using cable and rod displays in windows or on walls to keep materials tidy and visible without taking up floor space.

4. Refresh Content Regularly

Outdated or damaged materials can give the wrong impression. Set a regular schedule for reviewing and updating displays such as replacing worn posters, removing expired campaign material, and refreshing digital content.

If you use content management software (CMS) for digital screens, you can update displays remotely across multiple locations at once, ensuring consistency without the admin burden.

5. Encourage Interaction and Engagement

Engagement isn’t only about visuals, it’s also about connection. Use QR codes on posters or digital slides to link patients to further resources, booking systems, or feedback forms. Interactive content encourages patients to take an active role in their own healthcare journey.

When patients feel involved and informed, they’re more likely to follow advice, return for follow-up appointments, and trust the care provided.

Conclusion

Engaging patient information displays are a simple yet powerful way to improve communication and build trust. Combine clear design, smart placement, and regular updates. This helps to ensure every visitor has access to the information they need, when and where they need it.

With the right mix of digital screens, acrylic panels, and leaflet displays, your healthcare environment can communicate as clearly and compassionately as your staff.

References

1. Katherine Maskell, Paula McDonald and Priyamvada Paudyal, ‘Effectiveness of health education materials in general practice waiting rooms: a cross-sectional study’ (2018) , British Journal of General Practice 2018; 68 (677): e869-e876. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3399/bjgp18X699773.

2. Sahoo B, Pillai J K, Md S, et al., ‘Implementation of Wayfinding Signage in Public Hospitals and Its Evaluation Towards Quality Improvement’ (July 26, 2024), Cureus 16(7): e65435. doi:10.7759/cureus.65435.

3. ‘Digital Displays For Healthcare’, https://scanlite.co.uk/industries/healthcare/.