Health literacy is the ability to understand and use health-related information to make wise decisions about one's own health Health literacy includes basic knowledge of health topics and critical thinking and decision-making skills that enable people to identify health and wellness issues, understand health risks and benefits, and access, use and evaluate health care services and information.
Health literacy is important to society because it helps people make informed decisions about their health, prevent and manage illnesses and improve health outcomes. It also helps people better navigate the health care system, which increases patient satisfaction. Furthermore, having higher health literacy can reduce health costs and lead to better health outcomes for people across different communities. Health literacy is a necessary foundation for healthcare systems, public health initiatives and public health policies. Here are five examples of why health literacy is so important:
1. Accessibility to Healthcare: People with higher health literacy are more likely to seek out healthcare and use preventive services, leading to better overall health. People with lower levels of health literacy are more likely to delay medical care, leading to poorer outcomes and higher health costs, both personally and for society.
2. Understanding Medical Messages: People with higher health literacy are better able to comprehend medical messages and make more informed decisions about their health. This makes them less likely to be confused or misinformed about health care topics, which can cause unnecessary illnesses or complications.
3. Managing Illnesses and Treatments: People with higher health literacy are better able to understand and manage their illnesses and treatment plans. They are able to accurately describe symptoms and their health history and accurately follow medical instructions and advice. This can help prevent unnecessary hospitalizations and improve health outcomes.
4. Healthcare Engagement: People with higher health literacy are better able to engage in their own healthcare and be active partners in their care. This can lead to better outcomes and improved patient satisfaction.
5. Health Education: People with higher health literacy are better able to access, analyze and use health-related information to make decisions about their health. This can help empower people to take charge of their health, make informed decisions and take preventive measures.
Overall, health literacy is an important component of public health and one that should not be overlooked. By understanding health literacy and how it impacts individuals and society, we can work to reduce health disparities and create healthcare systems that are accessible and equitable for everyone.