Health literacy is the ability of individuals to read,
understand, and act upon health-related information. Health
literacy also refers to the capacity of professionals and
institutions to communicate effectively so that community
members can make informed decisions and take appropriate actions
to protect and promote their health. Health literacy affects
people's ability to: - Navigate the healthcare system to get
needed services, including locating providers and services,
filling out forms, and advocating for themselves - Share
personal information and engage in dialogue with clinicians -
Understand written and oral information given by doctors,
nurses, pharmacists, and other health care professionals -
Follow directions in taking medications, preparing for a
procedure or test, and scheduling appointments Low health
literacy among individuals is linked to poor health status,
limited access to care, late entry into treatment for disease,
and higher rates of hospitalization. While many adults with
relatively h