The Partnership for Clear Health Communication is a new endeavor with a goal of improving health literacy. What is health literacy?
Health literacy is the ability to read, understand and effectively use basic medical instructions and information.
Low health literacy can affect anyone of any age, ethnicity, background, or education level. People with low health literacy:
Are often less likely to comply with prescribed treatment and self-care regimens.
Fail to seek preventive care and are at higher (more than double) risk for hospitalization. Remain in the hospital nearly two days longer than adults with higher health literacy.
Often require additional care that results in annual health care costs that are four times higher than for those with higher literacy skills.
