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 Welcome! There are many reasons people struggle to understand health information. Sometimes it is because the information is new or confusing. An example is my pill bottle. I've taken this medication for years. But recently the pharmacy added a sticker saying to take it with "plenty of water." But how much is "plenty" of water? And why must I start doing this now? I asked my doctor these questions. She explained that some people need take their medication this way. But I can safely ignore the instruction. No wonder people get confused. Thank you for helping to make health information easier to understand. As you requested, here's what's new in Health Literacy Consulting. |
| HLOL Podcasts |
Health Literacy Out Loud (HLOL) Podcasts. In these podcasts, you get to listen in on my conversations with some amazing people. Here are the latest HLOL podcasts: HLOL #57: Texting Important Health Messages. Julie Gazmararian PhD researches and writes about many important health literacy topics. Now she is evaluating a project called "Text4Baby" that brings together text messaging with prenatal/newborn care. In this podcast, she talks about: - How "Text4Baby" is used to teach about prenatal and newborn care.
- Why text messaging is a communication tool to consider now.
- What researchers are learning early in the evaluation process.
- Recommendations for using text messaging in your practice.
HLOL #56: Helping Others Understand Health Messages. Dr. Lisa M. Schwartz and Dr. Steven Woloshin are practicing physicians and co-authors of "Know Your Chances: Understanding Health Statistics" and the new book, "Overdiagnosed." In this podcast, they talk with Helen Osborne about: - Helping people make sense of health statistics and health claims.
- Three questions to help others better understand health messages.
- Ways to clearly and simply communicate complicated health messages.
HLOL #55: Health Literacy Milestones and Opportunities. Dr. Ruth Parker is nationally recognized for her efforts in health literacy research, education, and health policy. Her many accomplishments include helping to develop the TOFHLA (Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults) and co-writing the health literacy definition used in many publications and initiatives including the U.S. Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (otherwise known as "Health Care Reform"). In this podcast, Dr. Parker talks with Helen Osborne about:
- Why health literacy matters so much to her, and everyone else.
- Health literacy milestones, especially in the past ten years.
- Health literacy opportunities ahead in this era of health care reform.
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HLC How-To
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HLC How-To: National Action Plan to Improve Health Literacy. Nearly one year ago, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion launched the National Action Plan to Improve Health Literacy. This important document serves as a roadmap for health literacy efforts - helping engage organizations, professionals, policymakers, communities, individuals, and families in a linked, multi-sector effort to improve health literacy. This month's How-To Tip includes all 7 goals along with ideas about addressing them.
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| HL News | |
- Health Literacy from A to Z: Second Edition. I am thrilled to share news that there will soon be a second edition of my book, "Health Literacy from A to Z." I have updated and revised all content to reflect current research and practice. I have also added information about many new and timely topics. And every chapter includes one or more "Stories from Practice." Tentative publication date is December 1, 2011. Follow the link above to learn more and order your copies!
- CDC just launched a new health literacy website. It is a wonderful resource filled with important information and links. Website topics include: Learn about Health Literacy; Get Training; Plan and Act; Develop Materials; Research and Evaluate; Share and Interact.
- "What's Your Health IQ?" In this article about health literacy posted online at ABCNews, I share my story about difficulties understanding health information when faced with a new diagnosis. Rima Rudd is quoted extensively in this article, too.
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| Sponsor | |
Boston University's Master of Science in Health Communication (MSHC) online program offers a unique multi-disciplinary format where students gain advanced knowledge in a variety of health care topics. You'll learn best practices for communicating within the health care field, from explaining patient care options to serving as a spokesperson during a health crisis. Students also utilize marketing, PR, and social media tactics to promote healthy lifestyles. Learn more about the award-winning MSHC online program.
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Until June,
~ Helen Osborne |
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