How is "health literacy" defined?

The definition of "health literacy" encompasses the ability to obtain, process, and understand health information effectively. This includes understanding medical advice, navigating the healthcare system, and making informed decisions about one's health and treatment options. Being health literate means that individuals can read and comprehend health-related materials, communicate their health needs, and act on health information. This competency is crucial in promoting health and preventing disease, as it enables individuals to engage in informed discussions with healthcare providers and comply with medical advice.

While accessing healthcare facilities, paying for services, and knowledge of medical terminology are related to health and the healthcare system, they do not fully capture the essence of health literacy. Accessing healthcare focuses on physical availability, financial capability pertains to economic barriers, and knowledge of medical terminology relates specifically to the vocabulary used in healthcare contexts, which is just one part of the broader health literacy spectrum.