Healthcare instructions can pose a significant challenge in terms of comprehension. When we consider the journey of information from healthcare researchers to patients, it becomes apparent that a considerable amount can be lost in translation. This, in turn, can have a profound impact on the general public’s ability to effectively utilize healthcare information for the betterment of their health and overall quality of life. Regardless of the advancements in research and the innovative nature of medical tools, the value of the information is inherently tied to a patient’s capacity to interpret and understand it. This underscores the critical importance of health literacy.
However, a notable gap exists between the knowledge possessed by healthcare professionals and what the average patient can grasp. This discrepancy emphasizes the crucial roles of health literacy and the use of plain language in fostering successful doctor-patient relationships. It becomes the responsibility of those operating within the healthcare system to cultivate a culture of clear communication. This, in turn, acts as a catalyst for individuals to adopt healthy behaviors and adhere to treatment plans.
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What Is Health Literacy?
Health literacy is the measure of a patient’s ability to access, comprehend, and implement healthcare instructions for the sake of overall wellness. It is an indispensable factor at every stage of a patient’s healthcare journey, encompassing the understanding of prescription instructions, coping with medical emergencies, comprehending consent forms, and navigating the intricacies of the healthcare system.
Why Is Health Literacy Important?
Health literacy serves as an empowering force, enabling individuals to take charge of their long-term health and wellness. The cultivation of a culture that values and promotes good health literacy contributes to individuals maintaining better overall health and preemptively preventing health issues. Equipping people with the necessary information, tools, and resources to comprehend health-related information not only empowers patients but also enhances the effectiveness of doctors in their work. In the larger scheme, this might lead to a reduction in hospital visits, potentially alleviating some of the pressure on healthcare facility capacities.
The Pandemic and Health Literacy
The global challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic have significantly impacted both the healthcare industry and the general public. The rapid spread of the virus brought forth not only physical health challenges but also a surge in fear and misinformation. This glaringly highlighted the prevalent lack of health literacy on a global scale. The influx of contradictory instructions through social media and political channels showcased the urgency for stronger consumer health literacy. A more informed public could have acted as a mitigating factor in curbing fears and slowing down the spread of the disease. This public health emergency laid bare the existing disparities in the healthcare system, underscoring the imperative need for a concerted effort to enhance health literacy worldwide.
How to Improve Health Literacy
Individuals can take proactive steps to improve their health literacy by educating themselves on how to care for their well-being on a daily basis. Several strategies can be employed:
1. Asking Your Doctor Questions: In the pursuit of clarity, individuals should not hesitate to seek further information from their healthcare providers. When it comes to matters of health, there is no such thing as a foolish question.
2. Repeating Instructions in Your Own Words: Recognizing the tendency of doctors to use technical jargon, individuals can enhance their understanding by paraphrasing the given instructions in their own words. This also provides an opportunity for the doctor to clarify any points if necessary.
3. Bringing Someone You Trust to Appointments: A supportive friend or family member can be invaluable during doctor’s appointments. They can assist by taking notes, aiding in comprehension, and providing a reference for information discussed during the visit.
4. Working with a Patient Navigator: Engaging the services of a patient navigator, a professional trained to assist in understanding and navigating the healthcare system, can significantly enhance health literacy. Patient navigators provide support in finding health services, weighing treatment options, obtaining referrals, exploring relevant clinical trials, accurately completing forms, and applying for financial assistance.
5. Using Credible Sources: In addition to consulting with healthcare providers, individuals can access reliable sources of healthcare information. Doctor’s offices typically have supplementary materials to explain health conditions and complex information. Online sources such as the CDC can provide status updates on health-related issues, including the latest information on COVID-19. However, it is crucial to exercise caution and discernment, as not all information found on the internet is backed by scientific research.
The enhancement of health literacy is a collaborative effort involving both healthcare professionals and individuals. By taking proactive steps to improve understanding and communication, we can collectively contribute to a more informed and empowered society in matters of health and wellness.
Health Literacy: Community Well-Being
Understanding health information is crucial for the well-being of communities and larger groups of people. As a member of society, you have a responsibility to contribute to the safety of others by following practices that prevent diseases. Simple actions like washing your hands, getting vaccinated for chronic diseases, and taking care of your body play a role in this effort.
Skills You Need for Good Health Literacy
Achieving good health literacy may sound challenging, but individuals can equip themselves with certain skills to enhance their understanding of health information. What are these skills?
Basic Math Skills: Knowing how to add, subtract, and multiply is helpful for measuring medications, understanding nutrition labels, and keeping track of copays and deductibles for doctor’s visits.
Literacy Skills: Being able to understand written and spoken language is essential for following doctor’s orders and comprehending medication labels. People with low health literacy might struggle to grasp essential healthcare information.
Basic Health Knowledge: Individuals should have a basic understanding of how their body functions and common causes of illnesses and injuries. With this knowledge, people can adopt healthy lifestyles and avoid habits that may lead to diseases, such as smoking or spending time outdoors without sunscreen.
How Can We Address Health Literacy?
The issue of insufficient health literacy is widespread. While individuals bear a responsibility to educate themselves and develop health literacy skills, healthcare organizations and professionals have an even greater duty to ensure that people have the necessary resources and access to healthcare information for maintaining good health. Health services coordinators can make a significant impact by prioritizing health literacy in coordinating communications between doctors and patients.
What Can You Do with a Health Services Coordination Degree?
The problem of inadequate health literacy is systemic. While individuals have a responsibility to educate themselves and develop health literacy skills, healthcare organizations and professionals have an even greater responsibility to make sure people have the resources and access to healthcare information they need to stay healthy. Professionals such as health services coordinators can make a major impact by prioritizing health literacy when coordinating doctor-patient communications.
1. Mental health technician
2. Speech therapist
3. Probation officer
4. Substance abuse counselor
5. Intervention specialist
6. Family therapist
7. Health educator
8. Rehabilitation specialist
9. Child advocate case manager
10. Nutritionist
11. Juvenile correction officer
12. Occupational therapist
13. Social worker
14. Community health worker
15. School counselor
16. Grant writer
17. Behavioral therapist
Earning your health and human services degree will open countless doors for you, without forcing you to give up your current responsibilities and lifestyle. Online program allows you to earn your degree online at your own pace, all while caring for your family and holding a full-time job. Since the tuition is charged per term rather than per credit, health services students are empowered to accelerate through material they know well.
Health services coordination graduates will be prepared to make a positive impact on the health literacy in their communities and the greater U.S. population. You’ll be poised to expertly coordinate with healthcare providers, patients, caregivers, and medical services to improve the effectiveness, safety, and efficiency of an increasingly complex health care system.
With a degree in health services management, you’ll also be on the front lines of navigating emerging care systems, and help professionals communicate and administer new treatments that will save lives. Earning this bachelor’s degree includes instruction in value-based care, care coordination, and social determinants of health. Once you’ve earned your degree, you’ll be ready for a career of trailblazing in various medical fields, from pharmacy to home health.
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