An Australian Co-Designed Template for Accessible Medicines Information for People With Intellectual Disability

BACKGROUND: People with intellectual disability often experience barriers to accessing and understanding medicines information, limiting informed decision-making and safe medicine use. This study aimed to co-design an accessible, easy-read medicines information leaflet template using psychotropic medicines as an initial case study.

METHOD: A qualitative constructivist grounded theory approach was used. Six focus groups were conducted (n = 31). Participants reviewed existing medicine leaflets and provided feedback on readability, format, and content. Data was analysed thematically to identify key features required for accessible design.

RESULTS: Two core domains were identified: how information is presented and what information is included. Participants prioritised short sentences, large font, supportive visuals, and easy-read language, alongside practical, personalised content about medicine purpose, dosing, side effects, and help seeking.

CONCLUSIONS: Co-designed with people with intellectual disability, this template aims to improve health literacy and support informed medicines use. Policy reform and outcomes focused evaluation are warranted.