What does "health literacy" mean?

Health literacy refers to a patient's ability to understand health information and use that knowledge to make informed decisions about their health care. This includes comprehending medical instructions, interpreting health-related information such as prescription labels and appointment slips, and understanding the risks and benefits of various treatment options.

This capability is crucial because it empowers patients to participate actively in their own health care, encouraging them to ask questions, seek clarification, and follow treatment plans effectively. When patients are health literate, they are more likely to engage in behaviors that promote better health outcomes, reducing the likelihood of miscommunication and enhancing the overall quality of care.

While memorizing health facts is helpful, it does not equate to health literacy since understanding and application are essential components. A professional's ability to explain medical terms is valuable but focuses on communication rather than the patient's understanding and decision-making process. Lastly, a statistical measure of patient outcomes falls under health metrics rather than literacy, emphasizing results over the comprehension needed to achieve those results.