Health Literacy Takeaways

     The term health literacy is something that I thought I knew and understood but when asked what exactly it was and what it meant I found myself at a loss for words. I learned that health literacy is basically the level that a client obtains, processes and understands information and knowledge about their health. This concept is extremely important and gets looked over way too often because of assumptions made by medical professionals. As a current student in OT school I have a basic understanding of numerous medical terms, however there are many times that I have gone to a doctors appointment and left with medicine that I didn't know what is was for or even how to take it properly. I knew that I should ask for help or clarification but it seems embarrassing and just scary, so I do not. This exact situation is what happens with too many clients because they are scared or embarrassed to ask for help. In order to have the healthiest population possible, it is imperative that health services not seem scary to people who may need a little extra assistance. I have learned numerous techniques to help to ensure the best care and information is given to the client. OT's and all other medical professionals and medical offices should offer to help with paperwork and offer to read or explain anything, use pictures and symbols, use bulleted lists instead of paragraphs, highlight main points and even check for understanding by allowing the client to summarize their visit. These are simply steps that can really make a difference in the health and wellness of our clients not only in OT but in every medical profession.
     Another concept that I learned about were the different determinants of health and they levels that OT's help reduce potential threats of them. Determinants of health are basically what makes up you including your genetic make up, individual behaviors, social and physical environment and available health services. These determinants can positively or negatively influence your life and if they are a negative to your well being there are 3 different types of intervention that OT's are able to use to try to combat it. The type of interventions are primary, secondary and tertiary. Primary is having preventative measures in intervention to try to stop a future problem from occurring. Secondary intervention is when a barrier or illness has already occurred but still in the early stages and can easily be controlled; basically a screening stage. The last intervention is tertiary which is when there is an ongoing barrier or illness with lasting effects but we still try to improve quality of life as best as possible. These interventions are simple but extremely important to be aware of and understand the basic principles so that as future OT practitioners we can be well informed and integrate them into our practice while also being able to effectively inform our clients.