Health Literacy Flashcards
How is literacy defined?
- reading
- writing
- speech/comprehension
- basic math
Definition?
The degree to which people have the ability to find, understand, and use information and services to inform health related decisions and actions for themselves and others
What are the literacy levels?
- below basic
- basic
- intermediate
- proficient
Low health literacy increases?
- costs- to patient, provider, system
- frustration- to patient, provider, system
What are the 5 basic principles?
- Make the message clear
- Use understanding language
- Pay attention to layout
- Choose an appropriate font
- Select images wisely
How to make message clear?
-use an active voice to emphasize important messages & eliminate ambiguity
Ex: apply sunscreen everyday or use your inhaler to prevent asthma attacks
How to make language understanding?
Avoid using jargon/professional terminology
-instead of hypertension, say high blood pressure
Layout?
Use headings to group info into sections
-use bullets