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Health literacy: Reading between the lines

Abstract Health literacy has its origins in the relationship between how well an individual can read, write and understand information and the impact that this might have on the way they make health decisions. These health decisions might be wide-ranging, from health behaviour on a personal level, through to interaction with clinicians and access to services. The models of health literacy are developing to embrace the more complex concepts of empowerment and self-determination in the context of patient choice, lifestyles and health behaviour. This paper explores the ways in which health literacy can be described using models including Nutbeam and Kickbush. It sets out how the current thinking influences the development of health literacy in England. The Department of Health programme is outlined with particular reference to the Skilled for Health programme, a tri-partnership between the Department of Health, Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills and ContinYou, a learning and education charity based in the West Midlands, England. The paper concludes that the complex nature of accessing health information and making health decisions requires a high level of skills. Health literacy initiatives can make a difference by developing skills in literacy, language and numeracy and assisting in the increase in knowledge, awareness and skills to implement changes in health behaviour and to increase access to health services.