Health Literacy Month

October is Health Literacy Month and Myers and Stauffer Supports Informed Health Care Choices

As a firm committed to advancing public health care programs and ensuring accountability in health care systems, we understand that empowering individuals to make informed health decisions is at the core of a well-functioning system.

Health literacy, defined as the ability to obtain, understand, and use health information to make informed decisions, is a critical factor in achieving positive health outcomes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 9 out of 10 adults struggle to fully comprehend and use health information. This challenge can lead to poor health outcomes, higher hospitalization rates, and increased health care costs.

Why Health Literacy Matters

Patients today are faced with an overwhelming amount of health information, whether it’s from health care providers, insurance plans, or public health initiatives. The complexity of medical terms, procedures, and instructions can often leave individuals feeling confused and uncertain about their choices. This is especially true for vulnerable populations, including those with low income, limited education, or language barriers.

Improving health literacy means simplifying complex information, enhancing communication between health care providers and patients, and providing tools that allow patients to actively participate in their own care. When patients understand their conditions, treatment options, and preventive measures, they are more likely to adhere to prescribed treatments, avoid unnecessary hospital visits, and maintain healthier lifestyles.

How Myers and Stauffer Supports Health Literacy

We are proud to work with state and federal health care programs that serve millions of individuals, many of whom face barriers to understanding their health information. Our Consulting, Managed Care, Benefit/Program Integrity, and Audit teams, each backed by highly trained professionals, can help support and guide states seeking to address health literacy issues and improve their health programs. We can craft the right approaches and processes your state needs to help achieve greater parity and better outcomes and access in health care. If your organization is looking for guidance on improving health literacy or needs support in enhancing public health care programs, our teams are ready to assist. Reach out to Myers and Stauffer today to learn how we can collaborate on developing tailored solutions that improve access to care, outcomes, and patient understanding. Contact us to discuss how we can partner in advancing health literacy for the populations you serve.