About Health Literacy

Health Literacy Person

The definition of health literacy has two parts. The first part is personal health literacy. This means how well people can 

  • find
  • understand 
  • use information and services to make health decisions.
     

The second part of health literacy is organizational. Organizational health literacy is how well organizations help people

  • Find
  • Understand
  • Use information and services to make health decisions.


How well someone understands health information can change. Situations like 

  • how you are feeling that day
  • how much time someone can spend explaining
  • or if the information is in your language, can affect learning.


Health organizations need to share information that is: 

  • Easy to understand 
  • Thoughtful of cultures and languages       
  • Easy for anyone to find and use 

These changes will improve health for everyone.

HL Resources