Health Literacy Month, observed every October, is a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of health literacy and empowering individuals to make informed health decisions. 

Whether navigating the healthcare system, understanding medical advice, or making lifestyle changes to promote better health, health literacy plays a crucial role. Learn why health literacy is so vital, and explore the key areas of knowledge that are essential for becoming health literate.

Why Is Health Literacy Important?

Health literacy is defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as the ability to obtain, process, and understand basic health information and services needed to make appropriate health decisions. In simpler terms, it’s about understanding your health and knowing how to navigate the healthcare system effectively. 

Higher health literacy:

• Improves overall health outcomes. People with higher health literacy tend to have better overall health outcomes by taking preventive measures, managing chronic conditions effectively, and avoiding unnecessary hospital visits. Health literacy helps people: 
  • Adhere to treatment plans, 
  • Make informed decisions about procedures, and 
  • Better understand the implications of their health choices.

• Reduces healthcare costs. People with low health literacy are more likely to experience hospitalization and higher healthcare costs due to:
  • Misunderstandings about medical instructions, 
  • Medication errors, or 
  • Failure to recognize the symptoms of a worsening condition. 
  • Empowers patients to take control of their health. When people are health literate, they are better equipped to communicate effectively with healthcare providers, ask productive questions, advocate for their needs, and obtain more personalized healthcare. Patients can make more informed decisions when they fully understand the risks and benefits of treatments, preventive measures, and lifestyle changes.

• Promotes health equity. Health literacy is critical for reducing disparities in healthcare. Communities with historically low access to healthcare services, such as minorities and those with low income, often have lower health literacy levels. Addressing health literacy gaps can improve access to care, ensure more equitable healthcare delivery, and enhance the quality of life in underserved communities.

What You Need to Know to Be Health Literate

Health literacy encompasses a broad set of skills, including the ability to read and comprehend health information, navigate the healthcare system, and apply this knowledge in real-life situations. Here are the most important aspects you need to understand in order to be or become health literate.

Understanding Basic Medical Terms and Concepts

One of the most significant barriers to health literacy is the complexity of medical language. Medical terms can be confusing, even for educated individuals, which is why understanding some basic medical terminology is crucial. Here’s what people should know:

• Common medical terms. Understanding what common medical terms like ocular (relating to the eyes), hypertension (high blood pressure), and renal (relating to the kidneys) mean, and how they apply to your health, can help you better manage your condition(s).
• Medication instructions. Knowing how to read and follow medication labels, including understanding dosage instructions, possible side effects, and interactions, is essential for safe and effective medication use.
• Symptoms and conditions. Being able to recognize symptoms that could indicate health problems (e.g., fever, blurry vision, fatigue, shortness of breath), and determine when to seek medical attention can help prevent complications from new or existing diseases, syndromes, and conditions. 

Navigating the Healthcare System

Accessing appropriate providers and care in the U.S. health system can feel frustrating and overwhelming, especially for those with low health literacy. Knowing how to navigate it is a key skill. Important components include:

• Insurance. Understanding health insurance coverage, including deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket expenses, can prevent unexpected financial burdens. Make it a point to learn how to verify which services are covered by your policy, and how to find in-network providers.
• Accessing care. Educate yourself on when and where to seek medical care. Know the difference between primary care, urgent care, and emergency room care, as well as how to find and obtain referrals to specialists when needed.
• Health records. Learn how to access and maintain your health records, which can include lab results, vaccination records, and lists of past procedures. Electronic health records (EHRs) make this easier, but you still need to understand how to interpret your personal health information.

Asking Questions and Communicating Effectively

One of the most critical aspects of health literacy is the ability to ask the right questions and communicate effectively with your and your loved ones’ healthcare providers to get the answers you seek. This can significantly impact your understanding of your health and the quality of your care. Some tips for effective communication include:

• Ask for clarification. If something isn’t clear, ask your healthcare provider to explain it in simpler terms. Don’t hesitate to request written materials or resources that you can review later. Ask about everything, from pain relief to stress management to getting better sleep.
• Bring a list of questions. Preparing a list of questions before a medical appointment can help ensure that all your concerns are addressed. Common questions may include asking about treatment options, the potential side effects of medications, or steps to manage a condition at home. 
• Bring a companion. Sometimes having a trusted friend or family member at your medical appointments can help ensure that important information is understood, documented, and remembered, especially when managing a complex diagnosis or treatment plan.

Using Technology and Online Health Resources

In the digital age, many people turn to the internet for health information. While this can be helpful, it can also be risky if individuals don’t know how to evaluate credible sources. Key points include:

• Reliable sources. Focus on using reputable websites for health information, such as government health sites (CDC, NIH), or well-known hospitals, medical schools, and organizations (Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins, Cleveland Clinic, Society for Women’s Health Research, etc.).
• Telemedicine. Understanding how to use telehealth services, which became increasingly popular during the COVID-19 pandemic, is an essential part of navigating modern healthcare.
• Health apps. Numerous health-related apps help manage chronic conditions, track physical activity, monitor diet, and more. Learning to use these tools is a proactive approach to health management.

Understanding Preventive Care and Healthy Lifestyles

An essential component of health literacy is understanding the role of preventive care in maintaining good health. Preventive measures help catch conditions early or avoid them altogether. People should be aware of:

• Routine checkups and screenings. Regular health screenings (e.g., blood pressure checks, cholesterol tests, mammograms) are essential for early detection of diseases.
• Vaccinations. Knowing the importance of vaccinations and staying up-to-date on recommended immunizations, including flu shots and COVID-19 boosters, is a cornerstone of preventive care. Find out where to get them in your area, and who pays for them.
• Healthy habits. Health literacy also includes an understanding of what is considered healthy and productive nutrition, exercise, and stress management, as well as the risks of unhealthy behaviors like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

Health Literacy in a Nutshell

Health literacy is about much more than understanding medical jargon. It’s about empowering you to:

• Make informed decisions about your health, 
• Seek care effectively, and 
• Take preventive actions to avoid health problems in the first place. 

By understanding key concepts, learning how to navigate the healthcare system, communicating effectively with providers, and utilizing technology wisely, people from all walks of life can take better control of their health. 

As a society, it’s important to continue promoting health literacy to ensure that everyone has the tools they need to live more optimally for a longer time.

You can use this toolkit to spread awareness about Health Literacy Month via social media.