Maximizing the visual translation of medical information: A narrative review of the role of infographics in clinical pharmacy practice, education, and research

Abstract

AbstractIntroductionInfographics, an abbreviated term for informational graphics, are visual representations of complex ideas or concepts. They have long played a role in the dissemination of ideas from various fields, such as business and arts. However, infographics have had an increasing role in the health care field and medical education, both for professionals and patients. To date, there is limited evidence on the use of infographics in the pharmacy profession. Conversely, the evidence is emerging for their use in other health care fields as an innovative strategy for education, dissemination of research, and public information.ObjectivesIn this narrative review, we aim to summarize the basic principles of infographic design, the role of infographics in education and research dissemination, and the role of amplifying audience reach through sharing infographics on social media.MethodsMedline and Google Scholar databases were searched for articles between 1969 and 2020 relating to infographics, healthcare, research and education then screened by all authors for their relevance to pharmacy practice.ResultsThis narrative review discussed the supportive literature for the role of infographics in patient education, higher‐level education, and research dissemination with a closing discussion on the intersection between social media, infographis and education.ConclusionThere is evolving evidence to support the use of infographics in patient education, research dissemination and higher‐level education. More research is needed to identify the role and impact of infographics in pharmacy education and clinical practice settings.