How is 'health literacy' defined?

Health literacy is defined as the ability to obtain, process, and understand health information. This concept emphasizes the importance of individuals being able to navigate the complex healthcare system, interpret medical information, make informed health decisions, and effectively communicate with healthcare providers. High health literacy enables patients to understand their medical conditions, follow treatment guidelines, and engage actively in their own health and wellness, ultimately leading to better health outcomes.

Other options do relate to aspects of health and healthcare but do not capture the comprehensive nature of health literacy. For instance, accessing insurance coverage is just one component of the broader healthcare experience, while promoting health policies may involve advocacy but does not directly pertain to an individual’s comprehension of health information. Similarly, using medical technology is a skill that may require some level of understanding, but it does not encompass the full range of abilities encompassed by health literacy, which is fundamentally about the understanding and application of health-related information.