Health Literacy

The CDC provides information as well as tools to improve health literacy and public health. A government website, this site includes what health literacy is and how to train on increasing health literacy. There are materials one can use to develop health literacy materials. The National Action Plan to Improve Health Literacy is also detailed.

This very useful libguide provides external websites on health literacy. Links included are introduction, research/reports, educator, patient care, plain language, and cultural competency. There are also useful Latino health sites. Lastly, there are videos/tutorials related to health literacy. The Patient Care section on the libguide includes tools for the patient along with the clinicians.

Another helpful government created site in which literacy and health literacy is defined. This basic fact sheet asks simple questions with small paragraph answers explaining why health literacy is important and who is at risk. In addition, it is also discussed who is responsible for improving health literacy, which is useful for any person looking to gain help in that area.

This research-based guide will help you develop intuitive health websites and digital tools that can be easily accessed and understood by all users — including the millions of Americans who struggle to find, process, and use online health information.

MedlinePlus begins with a brief definition of what health literacy is, followed by basic information. Related issues include information on how to decode your condition as well as how to read drug labels. Interactive tutorials are included, such as understanding medical words. The information is supported by the National Library of Medicine.

Created by the Medical Library Association, this site decodes special words doctors and nurses might use to describe your condition. It was designed to help people better understand what their doctor or nurse is telling you. Included are tips on how to understand certain health words, or “medspeak.”