Which statement about limited health literacy is supported by available data?

Which statement about limited health literacy is supported by available data?

• A. Higher mortality rates
• B. Better medicine adherence
• C. Shorter ED visits
• D. Lower hospital admissions

Answer: (A)

Limited health literacy means difficulty understanding health information and instructions needed to manage care. Available data show this is linked to higher mortality rates, because misunderstandings and gaps in following treatment plans can lead to poorer disease control and worse outcomes over time. It is not associated with better medicine adherence; in fact, adherence tends to be poorer among individuals with limited health literacy. It also leads to greater use of emergency services and higher hospital admissions, rather than shorter ED visits or fewer admissions.

Limited health literacy means difficulty understanding health information and instructions needed to manage care. Available data show this is linked to higher mortality rates, because misunderstandings and gaps in following treatment plans can lead to poorer disease control and worse outcomes over time. It is not associated with better medicine adherence; in fact, adherence tends to be poorer among individuals with limited health literacy. It also leads to greater use of emergency services and higher hospital admissions, rather than shorter ED visits or fewer admissions.