Health Literacy, Health Outcomes and Equity: A Trend Analysis Based on a Population Survey

Abstract

Health literacy continues to be an issue among minority groups. Population surveys are one strategy used to help better understand health disparities. The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) in Kansas added health literacy questions to the survey in 2012. This study examined population health literacy levels and health trends from 2012 to 2018. The health status variables included health care coverage status, general health rating, presence of chronic conditions, and length of time since the last check-up. The percentage of individuals reporting low health literacy decreased from 67% in 2012 to 51% in 2018. The percentage of participants with income levels less than $15 000 was 9% in 2012 and 7% in 2018. Health literacy was lowest among the age group 18 to 24-year-olds, those who identified as multiracial, separated, not graduated from high school, out of work for more than 1 year, income less than $10 000, with other living arrangements, and living in a suburban county of metropolitan statistical area. Additionally, many health conditions improved, and those reporting health insurance increased slightly. The study demonstrates how health literacy continues to be an issue, and how education and primary prevention are necessary to improve limited health literacy and health outcomes. Findings from both state-level and national BRFSS population surveys can help educate the public health and clinical health services workforce to provide better care and address health disparities for highrisk populations.

Improving health literacy using the power of digital communications to achieve better health outcomes for patients and practitioners

“…The reliability and accuracy of online health information remains a major worry. Individuals with low health literacy may struggle to discern credible sources ( 8 , 9 , 74 ). It is essential to continually promote health literacy skills that empower individuals to critically evaluate online information and seek reputable sources.…”

“…Addressing health inequities and promoting inclusivity in digital health literacy initiatives are also key to achieving better health outcomes. Tailoring interventions to diverse populations and providing support for individuals with varying digital skills, language barriers and lower health literacy levels can help mitigate disparities and ensure equitable access to digital health resources ( 8 , 68 , 69 ). Collaborating with community organisations and stakeholders can help reach underserved populations and ensure equitable access to digital health resources.…”

“…Addressing the global impact of poor health literacy requires tailored interventions that consider the unique challenges faced by different populations ( 8 , 20 ). Efforts should focus on improving health communication practices, developing culturally appropriate health information materials and strengthening healthcare systems to better meet the needs of individuals with varying health literacy levels ( 21 , 22 ).…”

“…Limited health literacy poses significant challenges to individuals and healthcare systems ( 8 , 23 , 24 ). The cited references shed light on the disparities in health literacy and emphasise the need for targeted interventions to address these gaps ( 25 , 26 ).…”

An Updated Equitable Model of Readiness for Transition to Adult Care

“…Given that relationships was already represented within SMART readiness factors to describe relationships among patients, caregivers, and practitioners, the relationships and networks factor was renamed environments and networks in SMART-E to reflect this broader definition. Further, in concordance with the literature on health equity in pediatric populations, health literacy was also added alongside knowledge within the readiness factors.…”