Health literacy is the ability to understand health information, navigate care, and make informed decisions; it shapes patient outcomes. Health Literacy Month reminds physicians to create clear, inclusive environments where patients can ask questions and participate confidently in their care.
What Is Health Literacy?
Health literacy includes finding and using health information, communicating with providers, and navigating services. Language, culture, accessibility, and the clarity of healthcare systems all affect it, making understandable information a shared responsibility.
Why Health Literacy Matters in Patient Care
Clear communication helps patients follow medications and care plans, use preventive services, weigh treatment options, and raise concerns. It also builds the trust needed for shared decision-making.
7 Practical Ways Physicians Can Improve Health Literacy
- Use Plain Language Instead of Medical Jargon
Use familiar terms, such as “high blood pressure” instead of “hypertension”, and pause so patients can process the information.
- Use the Teach-Back Method
Ask patients to explain instructions in their own words: “How will you take this medication at home?” This quickly surfaces misunderstandings.
- Encourage Patients to Ask Questions
Invite questions with open prompts such as, “What concerns do you have?” or “What can I explain further?”
- Make Written and Visual Materials Accessible
Use readable handouts and visuals with clear headings, brief instructions, translations, and accessible formats; review the key points during the visit.
- Address Language and Cultural Differences
Use qualified interpreters and ask about cultural preferences that may affect how patients describe symptoms or consider treatment.
- Simplify Medication and Follow-Up Instructions
Provide one written plan for medications, appointments, side effects, and when to seek help; ask how the patient will carry it out at home.
- Make Health Literacy a Practice-Wide Priority
Simplify scheduling, portals, billing, discharge instructions, and referrals; use patient feedback to improve materials and train staff.
Health Literacy and Health Equity
Because patients differ in language, disability, education, finances, and technology access, tailor support with interpreters, printed instructions, and accessible formats. Every patient deserves information they can understand and use.
Making Health Literacy Part of Everyday Practice
Make health literacy part of every visit: confirm that patients understand their diagnosis, treatment, and next steps; welcome questions; and ensure resources are accessible. Plain language, teach-back, responsive care, and simpler systems help patients make better-informed decisions.