Emojis can improve health communication, especially when incorporating emojis into traditionally word-only texts. Beyond improving communication, emojis also offer greater access to health care, especially for vulnerable and marginalized populations with limited health literacy. A recent study found that 94% of patients with limited health literacy preferred health reports with emojis. Moreover, health officials are considering adding emojis to cardiopulmonary resuscitation guidelines and public health guidelines for handwashing. As the world evolves with new technology and new methods of communication, we must also evolve the language and method we use to communicate health information to patients. In this viewpoint, we aim to discuss the methods health care professionals can use to develop novel communication methods using emojis and the benefits of their incorporation into health care communication.
Keywords: artistic; awareness; communication; creativity; electronic; emoji; health; health awareness; innovation; medical; medical communication; medical education; medical students; representation; society; student; technology, education.
©Sammer Marzouk, Shuhan He, Jarone Lee. Originally published in JMIR Medical Education (https://mededu.jmir.org), 11.11.2022.