Based
on evidence from 2025 and earlier studies, patient knowledge of
biochemistry improves comprehension of blood test results by helping them
understand complex medical terminology and numerical data. However, this
knowledge is just one component of overall health literacy, and many other
factors determine a patient's ability to interpret results.
How
biochemistry knowledge assists patients
A patient's understanding of biochemistry directly relates to their ability to interpret lab results in several key areas:
Deciphering medical terminology: Lab reports often contain highly technical terms (e.g., hemoglobin, creatinine, or blood urea nitrogen) that are based on biochemical principles. Knowing that hemoglobin is a protein that carries oxygen, for instance, gives context to a result that might otherwise be a meaningless acronym.
Understanding reference ranges: Many patients struggle to understand that "normal" reference ranges are based on statistical averages and that being slightly outside the range isn't always a cause for alarm. A deeper understanding of the biological factors that influence these values can help prevent unnecessary anxiety.
Connecting results to the body: Basic biochemical knowledge allows a patient to connect specific lab values to their underlying biological processes. For example, knowing that the kidneys filter urea can help a patient understand why high blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is a marker for kidney function.
Interpreting biomarker significance: Biochemistry is fundamental to understanding how biomarkers signal the state of one's health. Knowledge of these mechanisms helps a patient appreciate the clinical relevance of a test result beyond simply knowing if it is "high" or "low".
Obstacles
for US patients interpreting lab results
Despite the benefits of biochemical knowledge, most Americans face significant challenges in interpreting their own blood tests due to low health literacy. Other major barriers include:
Plain language and jargon: Many medical reports are written by and for clinicians, not patients, using complex medical terminology. A 2025 study highlighted that people with low health literacy struggled to find, view, and understand results on patient portals.
Numeracy skills: Many adults have difficulty interpreting numerical and statistical information, which is a core part of lab results. This is a significant barrier for patients trying to interpret graphs, tables, and reference ranges.
Patient portal design: The format in which results are presented on electronic patient portals can be confusing. Studies have found that even patients with high literacy can be confused by poorly designed interfaces.
Information gaps: Patients frequently report that they lack sufficient information and context to understand the purpose of a test, what the results mean for their health, and what their next steps should be.
Asynchronous results: The 21st Century Cures Act has mandated that patients receive electronic test results immediately. This means patients often see results before their doctor has reviewed them, leading to increased anxiety and misinterpretation.
Conclusion: Medical literacy over biochemical knowledge
In 2025, a working knowledge of biochemistry remains helpful, but general health literacy and effective clinician communication are far more critical for patients to understand their blood test results. Because most people lack advanced biochemical training, medical experts are focused on improving patient understanding through:
Revising
patient portals to include clearer explanations and educational resources.
Encouraging
clinicians to have proactive, detailed discussions with patients about the
purpose and meaning of lab tests.
Using plain, non-technical language to explain results.
Norb Leahy, Dunwoody GA Tea Party Leader
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