Health literacy for people with chronic conditions care

Abstract

The prevalence of illnesses such as Hypertension and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus are increasing in our country and the results of metabolic compensation in these patients are not optimal. It is necessary to identify factors for intervention, and effective and efficient strategies for the care of persons with chronic health conditions. Reflection has been done in relation to health literacy and the need to consider this concept in interventions. Health literacy is the ability to obtain, process and understand basic health information and services needed to make appropriate health decisions. It involves the ability to interpret texts, documents and numbers in an effective manner. International experiences indicate that poor health literacy is associated with negative health outcomes, for example: high rates of hospitalization, lack of metabolic control. For people with chronic conditions, a deficit in health literacy is a recognized barrier for self care-management, not only because of limitations related to understanding educational materials, but also because of difficulties in processing oral communication, in conceptualizing the risks of their condition and for effective communication with healthcare professionals. Nurses and others health professionals should consider this variable in the assessment and intervention of patients with chronic illnesses as it promotes care focused on the needs of the patient and their families, allowing for the development of abilities and competencies for better healthcare decision making.