Health literacy is a concept that is gaining more and more ground and aims to ensure that people acquire the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to make decisions to promote their health or prevent the onset of diseases. The WHO defines this health education as the cognitive and social skills that determine individuals’ motivation and ability to access, understand, and use information to maintain good health.
A multidisciplinary team comprising more than 40 experts in Psychology and Medicine, among other branches of science, has published the first work in Spain, with completely free access, that addresses this topic: Health Literacy. From Communication to Action. The edition covers aspects such as health communication, communication between patients, health education in schools, information for the elderly, health literacy and immigrants… while also offering additional materials and resources for professionals.
As health specialists, working in this area, helping patients understand the information received, and acquiring skills regarding control and self-care translate into a higher quality of life, clinical improvement, and a reduction in complications and hospitalization needs.
Download the Guide Health Literacy. From Communication to Action