Health Literacy: Why It Matters, What You Can Do

Health literacy is an individual's ability to obtain, understand and act on information and services and make appropriate health decisions.

People of all ages, incomes, races, and education levels have trouble with basic health information. Often, this is because information is not presented in a way that is easily understood. As a result, people with limited health literacy are less likely to get preventive care or effectively manage their existing chronic illnesses. They also have a higher rate of emergency room visits and hospitalizations and generally have poorer health.

Learning about health is a lifelong process and it is never too late, or too early, to start. 

Here are several steps you can take right now to make sure you get the best care possible:

• Plan your visit to the doctor. Think about what is important for you to discuss, make a list and show it to your doctor at the start of the appointment
• Bring a list of all medications, prescription and over-the-counter drugs, including vitamins and herbal products. Just because something is called "natural" doesn't mean it isn't harmful or can't interact with other drugs
• Share information that may be useful for the doctor to know and tell him your feelings and beliefs about your illness or condition
• When you talk with a doctor, nurse or pharmacist, or have a medical test, ask:
• What is my main problem?
• What do I need to do?
• Why is it important for me to do this?
• What are the potential benefits and risks?

• If you don't understand, say "This is new to me, would you please tell me again." Or "Please slow down so I understand what I'm supposed to do."

• Bring a family member or friend with you to listen and take notes 

• Repeat the information in your own words to make sure you "got it"

• Schedule another appointment, if you feel you need more time

• Call the doctor to ask about test results. Do not assume that "no news is good news"
• Make sure your pharmacist also knows about all the drugs and supplements you are taking. Because he or she can help identify potential drug interactions, it is a good idea to get all your prescriptions filled at the same place

• Explore http://www.ahrq.gov/consumer/ for more information about staying healthy, choosing quality care, understanding diseases & conditions, comparing medical treatments. Information is available in English and in Spanish