The Health Literacy Style Manual - Covering Kids & Families

Introduction
Improving health literacy
Imagine what might happen if your state were to pro d u c e
government program materials that are written the way most people
speak—with words that many more of your clients could read and
understand, and in languages and with illustrations that speak to
their countries of origin, levels of education, and cultures. More of
your clients would improve their health literacy. Health literacy is the
capacity to find and understand health information and services and
to make informed health-related decisions.
Health-literate consumers are your best customers. They’re more apt
to complete applications fully and send in verification pro m p t l y,
read your promotional materials, take their children for re g u l a r
checkups, avoid the emergency room for routine care, go for
p renatal care early and often, and send in renewals when you
remind them. They do all these things because they’ve learned about
the services you offer and know how to get to them. Your best
customers easily and efficiently use the information you provide for
them. They are empowere d .
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