What is health literacy?

Health literacy refers to the capacity to obtain, process, and understand basic health information. This encompasses a wide range of competencies that allow individuals to navigate the healthcare system effectively, understand health-related materials, and make informed decisions about their health and healthcare. Good health literacy enables individuals to interpret prescription labels, understand health pamphlets, and engage in discussions with healthcare providers, which is essential for managing one's health effectively.

While accessing health information online, reading about health issues, and making medical appointments are components of interacting with health resources, they do not fully capture the broader definition of health literacy. The focus on obtaining and processing health information highlights the importance of comprehension and practical application in real-life health scenarios, making it foundational for promoting health and well-being.