National Health Literacy Month: Why It Matters and How to Improve It
National Health Literacy Month: Why It Matters and How to Improve It
October is National Health Literacy Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of understanding health information.
Health literacy goes beyond just being able to read a prescription label—it’s about truly understanding the information essential to making informed decisions about your health. This could include managing a chronic illness, understanding a doctor’s advice, or interpreting a food label; health literacy plays a critical role in your ability to maintain and improve your well-being.
But why exactly does health literacy matter, and how can you improve it? Let’s explore this topic and discover ways to increase your health literacy for a healthier life.
Why Health Literacy Matters
Health literacy is how individuals obtain, process, and understand basic health information and services to make appropriate health decisions. Simply put, can you understand the health-related information you encounter every day?
Now, this is not meant to insult or disparage anyone. The language we use and understand daily relates to our personal experiences and work, not our education level. For example, talking to an engineer about their work may confuse many, and talking to a plumber or electrician may confuse others. We have a specialized language based on our area of expertise.
So, regarding health literacy, I encourage people to ask questions about things they don’t understand. Don’t be embarrassed or shy about asking because this can make a big difference in your health.
Health literacy affects your ability to:
Navigate the healthcare system, including filling out forms and understanding insurance.
Communicate effectively with healthcare providers.
Understand medical instructions and prescriptions.
Manage chronic conditions.
Make informed choices about diet, exercise, and preventive care.
Studies have shown that low health literacy is linked to poorer health outcomes. People with limited health literacy may need help following medical advice, managing diseases, and making informed health decisions. This often leads to higher hospitalization rates, more frequent use of emergency services, and a lower quality of life. Again, this has nothing to do with education level.
Improving health literacy empowers people to take control of their health and make choices that align with their best interests. It can lead to better management of chronic diseases, more effective preventive care, and a greater ability to advocate for oneself in the healthcare system.
Common Barriers to Health Literacy
Despite its importance, many people need help with health literacy. Some of the common barriers include:
Complex Medical Language: Medical jargon can confuse those without a healthcare background. Terms like “hypertension” instead of “high blood pressure” or “carcinogen” instead of “cancer-causing” can make health information inaccessible.
Cultural Differences: Cultural beliefs and language differences can impact how health information is understood and processed. For example, some communities may use alternative or home remedies not well-documented in mainstream medical information.
Limited Access to Resources: Not everyone has access to reliable sources of health information. Misinformation, especially online, can spread quickly, making it difficult to discern fact from fiction.
Time Constraints: With limited time during medical appointments, patients may leave without fully understanding their health condition or treatment options.
How to Improve Health Literacy
Improving health literacy is a shared responsibility between healthcare providers, public health systems, and individuals. Here are some practical ways to improve your health literacy:
Ask Questions One of the most effective ways to improve your health literacy is by asking questions. Don't hesitate to ask for clarification if something is unclear during a doctor’s visit. Doctors and healthcare providers are there to help you understand, not just to diagnose and treat. Use phrases like “Can you explain that in simple terms?” or “What does that mean for me?”
Use Reliable Sources The internet is full of health information, but only some are accurate and reliable. Stick to trusted sources like government health websites (e.g., the CDC—Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or NIH—National Institutes of Health), reputable healthcare organizations, and peer-reviewed journals. Be wary of websites promoting miracle cures or offering health advice without evidence. Unfortunately, even with the term “Doctor” or “MD,” there can still be questionable information.
Improve Communication with Healthcare Providers Good communication is crucial to health literacy. Share all relevant information about your symptoms, medications, dietary supplements, and health history with your healthcare provider. Your family history is also essential to know. This would mean primarily first-degree relatives, parents, siblings, and children. You don’t necessarily need to know aunts, uncles, and cousins. This ensures that they can offer advice and treatment tailored to your needs. Take notes during appointments or bring a family member or friend to help you remember important details.
Take Advantage of Health Literacy Tools Many healthcare organizations provide tools designed to improve health literacy, such as brochures, apps, or online educational resources. These tools are often written in plain language and can help you better understand complex medical topics.
Be Your Own Advocate Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself regarding your health. Speaking up is okay if something doesn’t make sense or you feel overwhelmed. Healthcare providers are there to support your understanding and decision-making. Remember that your health is a partnership, and you have a right to understand the information that impacts your health.
National Health Literacy Month reminds us of health literacy's vital role in improving health outcomes and quality of life. Understanding health information empowers individuals to make better decisions, communicate effectively with healthcare providers, and take control of their health. Following the tips above can boost your health literacy and make you feel more confident navigating the healthcare system. Knowledge is power—especially when it comes to your health.
