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Insight Horizon Media

What is National health literacy Month?

Author

Christopher Anderson

Published Mar 10, 2026

What is National health literacy Month?

October
October, through Health Literacy Month, provides an opportunity to engage health care stakeholders by working collaboratively to create health literate resources and materials. This makes it easier for patients to access and understand health information.

Why is health literacy important NZ?

It provides high quality services that are easy to access and navigate and gives clear and relevant health messages so that everyone living in New Zealand can effectively manage their own health, keep well and live well.”

How is health literacy measured in NZ?

Health literacy statistics in New Zealand Health literacy skills were measured on a scale of one (very low skills) to five (very high skills). Health literacy skills at level three are considered necessary to cope with the demands of everyday health situations.

Why is National health literacy Month important?

October recognizes Health Literacy Month. During this time, organizations and individuals promote the importance of understandable health information. Health Literacy Month brings awareness to breaking down the barriers of understanding.

What is health literacy CDC?

Personal health literacy is the degree to which individuals have the ability to find, understand, and use information and services to inform health-related decisions and actions for themselves and others.

How common is low health literacy?

Low health literacy is very common. According to a large national study, more than 1 in 3 adults in America have low health literacy. People with low health literacy may be able to read and understand a simple appointment slip or patient education pamphlet.

Who has poor health literacy?

Low health literacy is associated with patients who are older, have limited education, lower income, chronic conditions, and those who are non-native English speakers. Approximately 80 million adults in the United States are estimated to have limited or low health literacy.

How is health literacy important?

Health literacy is important for everyone because, at some point in our lives, we all need to be able to find, understand, and use health information and services. Health literacy can help us prevent health problems and protect our health, as well as better manage those problems and unexpected situations that happen.

How is health literacy defined?

Health literacy is the degree to which individuals have the capacity to obtain, process, and understand basic health information needed to make appropriate health decisions.