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Health literacy plays a critical role in promoting wellness and enabling individuals to make informed decisions regarding their health. It goes beyond simply being able to read health information; it encompasses the ability to comprehend and analyze information, decode instructions and symbols, weigh risks and benefits, and ultimately make decisions and take action. In this discussion, we will explore how concepts such as shared decision making, motivational interviewing, and models of care can positively impact the health literacy of specific populations, such as children, the elderly, and veterans.
Shared decision making (SDM) is an approach that involves healthcare professionals and patients working together to make decisions about healthcare. The aim is to ensure that patients are provided with adequate information, supported in understanding the options available to them, and empowered to actively participate in the decision-making process. SDM promotes health literacy by facilitating the exchange of information in a manner that is understandable and meaningful to the patient. This allows patients to better comprehend their health condition, related treatment options, and potential risks and benefits. In a study conducted by Elwyn et al. (2012), it was found that SDM enhanced patient knowledge, improved outcomes, and increased patient satisfaction. The incorporation of SDM into clinical practice can, therefore, enhance the health literacy of individuals within various populations.
Motivational interviewing (MI) is another valuable technique that can improve health literacy. MI is a patient-centered counseling approach that aims to facilitate behavior change by eliciting and strengthening a person’s intrinsic motivation to change. The use of MI techniques can enhance individuals’ understanding and motivation to adopt healthier behaviors. By using open-ended questions, reflective listening, and empathy, healthcare providers can help patients identify their own reasons and readiness for change. A systematic review conducted by VanBuskirk et al. (2015) demonstrated that MI resulted in improved health behaviors, including increased physical activity, healthier dietary choices, and decreased substance abuse. By integrating MI into healthcare interactions, providers can enhance health literacy by addressing the underlying motivations and barriers to behavior change.
In addition to SDM and MI, models of care that prioritize patient-centeredness and education can contribute to improving health literacy. One such model is the Chronic Care Model (CCM), which provides a framework for delivering care to individuals with chronic conditions. The CCM emphasizes patient self-management, active participation in care decisions, and the provision of personalized education and support. By involving patients in the development of their care plans and providing tailored education and resources, the CCM addresses the specific needs of patients and enhances health literacy. A systematic review conducted by Bodenheimer et al. (2002) demonstrated that the implementation of CCM resulted in improved patient outcomes, including decreased hospitalizations and better disease control.
Another model of care that promotes health literacy is the Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) model. The PCMH model emphasizes comprehensive and coordinated care, enhanced access to health information, and patient engagement. By serving as a central point of contact for patients, the PCMH ensures continuity of care, facilitates the exchange of information, and empowers patients to actively participate in their healthcare decision-making. Studies have shown that the PCMH model is associated with improved health outcomes and higher levels of patient satisfaction (Reid et al., 2010). By providing comprehensive and patient-centered care, the PCMH model can contribute to the development of health literacy skills in individuals of all ages.
In conclusion, improving health literacy is crucial for promoting wellness and enabling individuals to make informed decisions about their health. Through the incorporation of shared decision making, motivational interviewing, and models of care, health literacy can be enhanced in specific populations such as children, the elderly, and veterans. These approaches promote patient engagement, facilitate the exchange of information, and address the unique needs and challenges of individuals. By empowering individuals to actively participate in their healthcare decision-making and providing them with the necessary knowledge and support, health literacy can be improved, leading to better health outcomes and increased patient satisfaction.
References:
Bodenheimer, T., Wagner, E. H., & Grumbach, K. (2002). Improving primary care for patients with chronic illness. Jama, 288(14), 1775-1779.
Elwyn, G., Frosch, D., Thomson, R., Joseph-Williams, N., Lloyd, A., Kinnersley, P., … & Barry, M. (2012). Shared decision making: a model for clinical practice. Journal of general internal medicine, 27(10), 1361-1367.
Reid, R. J., Coleman, K., Johnson, E. A., Fishman, P. A., Hsu, C., Soman, M. P., … & Larson, E. B. (2010). The Group Health medical home at year two: cost savings, higher patient satisfaction, and less burnout for providers. Health affairs, 29(5), 835-843.
VanBuskirk, K. A., Wetherell, J. L., & Sherbourne, C. D. (2014). Motivational interviewing in primary care mentals health: A review of controlled trials. Primary care companion to the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 16(3), 3r01617.