Caregiver health literacy: a pediatric perspective

Abstract

Inadequate health literacy affects 9 out of 10 English speaking Americans creating substantial barriers that contribute to disparities within the health care context. In adults, health illiteracy is associated with increased emergency room visits and difficulty managing chronic disease. While this relationship is established for adults, the effect on pediatric patients is not well studied. Through review of currently published studies, this thesis will examine the hypothesis that low parental health literacy increases adverse outcomes in children. Gaining a better understanding of this relationship will illuminate the necessity for supportive programs to supplement patient care. Lack of a cohesive definition and measuring tool of health literacy are pivotal aspects of the current challenges in this field of research. Ultimately, discussion and collaboration amongst health care professionals, policy makers, organizations, patients and communities will lead to advancements to reduce health illiteracy in caregivers creating healthier futures for American children.