How to Increase Health Literacy in Patient Outcomes With Medical Communications

Health literacy is increasingly recognized as a critical factor in determining patient outcomes, influencing everything from disease prevention to the management of chronic conditions. It goes beyond the ability to read and comprehend health-related information, encompassing the skills needed to navigate the healthcare system, make informed decisions, and engage in health-promoting behaviors. Given that health literacy affects everyone at some point in their lives, its importance cannot be overstated.

Unlike general literacy, which involves basic reading and writing skills, health literacy also requires the ability to interpret medical terminology, evaluate risks and benefits, and manage one’s health effectively. The multidimensional nature of health literacy means that it affects people differently, depending on their background, education, and experience. Even those who are proficient in reading and comfortable with numbers can face difficulties when confronted with unfamiliar medical terms, complex health statistics, or the stress of a serious diagnosis.

The relevance of health literacy extends beyond clinical settings. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s 2018 report highlighted how health literacy influences various health conditions and outcomes.[1] It plays a crucial role in everyday life, from making dietary choices to understanding public health information during a pandemic. For example, when individuals need to vote on health-related issues that affect their community, they rely on their ability to comprehend technical information. Moreover, managing chronic health conditions often requires patients to engage in complicated self-care routines, making health literacy essential for effective disease management.

The Health Literacy Problem

Despite its importance, health literacy remains a significant challenge worldwide.

Several factors contribute to the health literacy problem:

1. Complex Information: Health information is often laden with medical jargon and technical language that is difficult for the average person to understand. This complexity makes it challenging for patients to grasp essential details about their health.
2. Confusing Healthcare System: The healthcare system itself can be difficult to navigate, with numerous steps, forms, and procedures that may confuse patients. When people are expected to figure out health services with many unfamiliar, confusing, or even conflicting steps, it creates a health literacy problem.
3. Cultural and Linguistic Barriers: In multicultural societies, differences in language, culture, and health beliefs can hinder effective communication between healthcare providers and patients, further exacerbating the health literacy problem.

The Role of Medical Communications in Enhancing Health Literacy

Health literacy also influences preventive care. Individuals with higher levels of health literacy are more likely to engage in preventive behaviors, such as getting vaccinated or participating in cancer screenings. These behaviors are critical for early detection and prevention of serious health conditions. Conversely, those with limited health literacy may miss out on these opportunities, increasing their risk of developing severe health problems.

Moreover, health literacy is closely tied to health disparities. Populations that are already marginalized due to socioeconomic factors, race, or ethnicity often have lower health literacy levels, compounding their risk of poor health outcomes. The intersection of health literacy with these broader social determinants of health underscores the need for targeted interventions that address the unique challenges faced by different communities.

The economic implications of limited health literacy are also significant. A report by the UnitedHealth Group estimated that improving health literacy could prevent nearly one million hospital visits annually, saving over $25 billion.[2] This statistic highlights the cost burden associated with low health literacy, which not only affects individuals but also strains the healthcare system.

Despite its importance, health literacy remains a challenge for many, exacerbated by complex health information, cultural and linguistic diversity, and the digital divide. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach that includes empowering patients, building health-literate organizations, and leveraging technology. By enhancing health literacy, we can not only improve individual health outcomes but also reduce healthcare costs and address broader health disparities. As such, it is imperative that health literacy becomes a central focus of public health policy and healthcare practice.

Please contact us at services@ls.enago.com to increase health literacy with medical communications!

References:

[1] https://www.cdc.gov/healthliteracy/pdf/Report-on-2016-BRFSS-Health-Literacy-Data-For-Web.pdf

[2] https://www.unitedhealthgroup.com/content/dam/UHG/PDF/About/Health-Literacy-Brief.pdf