Health literacy refers to an individual’s ability to obtain, process, and understand essential health information in order to make appropriate decisions regarding their well-being. A high level of health literacy is associated with better health outcomes, greater adherence to treatments, and a reduction in hospitalizations.
Effective communication between doctors and patients is crucial to ensuring adherence to prescribed treatments. A patient’s ability to understand medical instructions and their trust in healthcare professionals significantly impact the effectiveness of therapies. Studies have shown that low health literacy can lead to poor adherence to treatments, increasing the risk of complications and hospital admissions. Therefore, it is essential for healthcare professionals to adopt clear communication strategies tailored to the patient’s level of understanding.
The rise of digital technologies has made health information more accessible; however, not everyone has the necessary skills to navigate the digital world effectively. The digital divide represents the disparity in access to and use of information and communication technologies. This gap can limit some individuals’ ability to obtain accurate and up-to-date health information, negatively affecting their ability to make informed health decisions. Furthermore, a lack of digital skills may prevent effective use of telemedicine tools and other online healthcare resources, exacerbating existing inequalities.
To address challenges related to health literacy and the digital divide, targeted strategies are needed:
• Health education: Implementing programs to improve the understanding of health information.
• Digital training: Offering courses to develop digital skills, facilitating access to healthcare resources, and promoting critical use of available information.
• Accessible communication: Using simple language and visual tools in healthcare communications to ensure information is understandable for all.
• Community engagement: Collaborating with local organizations to disseminate health information and provide support, creating a network that fosters healthy behaviors.
Health literacy is a key skill for professionals in the sector, who must be able to convey information clearly and comprehensibly to patients, bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and practical application. The Healthcare Master’s programs at the University of Parma offer advanced training courses that include the development of skills in health communication, therapeutic education, and the use of digital technologies in healthcare.
Through a multidisciplinary approach and innovative teaching methods, these Master’s programs prepare professionals to become agents of change, improving access to care and promoting a more equitable, digital, and inclusive healthcare system.