Introducing health literacy

9-11

the average reading age in England is between 9 to 11 years old.

42%

of working age adults are unable to understand everyday health information.

61%

this then rises to 61% when numeracy skills are also required.

35%

of adults in Dorset Council area are estimated to have low health literacy.

50%

of what the Doctor tells us verbally we forget, studies have shown.

A definition of health literacy

Personal health literacy:

The degree to which individuals have the ability to find, understand, and use information and services to inform health-related decisions and actions for themselves and others.

Organisational health literacy:

The degree to which organizations equitably enable individuals to find, understand, and use information and services to inform health-related decisions and actions for themselves and others.

What is health literacy?

Health literacy is a person’s ability to read and understand basic health information and the services available to help them make decisions about their health. Health literacy is essential for both those working in healthcare and the patients who need care for several reasons:

For patients:

For patients, health literacy gives them greater power. It allows them to find their way around the healthcare system, to understand their prescription instructions, and make lifestyle choices that promote well-being. Poor health literacy can lead to confusion and mistakes. Patients might not be able to take the advice given and do what is asked if they don’t fully understand the instruction. This contributes to poorer health outcomes and bigger healthcare costs.

For healthcare professionals:

For healthcare professionals, clear communication is essential in sharing complex medical information, treatment options, and lifestyle choices that might help prevent ill health. When health literacy is done well, it helps patients to better understand and respond to the medical advice given, this leads to improved health outcomes. It also improves the relationship with patients, allowing each person to be a part of their care choices.