Communication in coeliac disease care is clinically precise yet variably experienced by patients, with qualitative literature describing challenges including diagnostic delay, symptom misattribution, and variability in perceived clinician understanding. These factors may adversely affect patient trust, engagement, and long-term disease management.
In this work we describe the adaptation and application of the Language Matters guidelines, originally developed for diabetes care, to coeliac disease. The aim was to translate a structured, evidence-informed communication framework into a related but distinct clinical context characterised by different treatment modalities, psychosocial burdens, and patterns of healthcare interaction.
Core principles from the diabetes Language Matters framework were mapped to coeliac disease care pathways, including diagnostic disclosure, dietary counselling, follow-up consultations, and management of accidental gluten exposure. The adaptation was informed by consultation with the original authors of the Diabetes Australia Language Matters framework, as well as published qualitative research describing patient experiences of diagnostic journeys, dietary burden, and interactions with healthcare systems in coeliac disease.
Key modifications focused on aligning language with the specific needs of coeliac disease care, including avoidance of moralising terminology regarding dietary adherence, reducing implicit blame associated with gluten exposure, and reinforcing collaborative, person-centred communication. Particular attention was given to the emotional impact of diagnosis and the cumulative burden of strict dietary management in social and healthcare contexts.
We propose that structured, condition-specific communication guidance may support improved patient experience, strengthen therapeutic relationships, and enhance engagement with long-term dietary management strategies. While direct evidence linking communication style to clinical outcomes in coeliac disease remains limited, parallel evidence from other chronic conditions, including diabetes, supports the role of language in shaping self-management and healthcare engagement.
We outline the adaptation process, highlight key distinctions between diabetes and coeliac disease communication needs, and propose practical recommendations for integration into routine clinical practice and future evaluation.