Literacy/Numeracy Issues
Reflect on your experiences with literacy/numeracy issues in healthcare settings. Explain any personal examples you have seen where poor literacy and
numeracy skills prevented attainment of good health. What recommendations would you make to improve communication where literacy and numeracy
limitations are evident?
For additional details, please refer to the Journal Guidelines and Rubric PDF document.
Click the above link to navigate to your journal and complete this module's assignment.
PHE 330 Journal Guidelines and Rubric:
Journal activities in this course are private between you and the instructor. Journal activities will allow you to personally reflect on your public health
experiences in relation to communication.
Guidelines for Submission: Submit assignment as a Word document with double spacing, 12-point Times New Roman font, and one-inch margins.
Critical Elements Exemplary (100%) Proficient (85%) Needs Improvement (73%) Not Evident (0%) Value…
I have encountered several cases in which poor literacy and numeracy skills have held back an individual’s ability to access proper healthcare services. For example, I once worked with a patient who was struggling to understand their diagnosis due to having limited knowledge of medical terms or concepts related to their condition. This lack of insight meant that they were unable to make informed decisions about the best course of treatment nor could they explain what medication they needed when visiting the pharmacy. As a result, it took much longer than necessary for them receive appropriate care which ultimately hindered their recovery process.
To address this issue, I believe it is essential for healthcare providers to employ effective communication methods by using simple language, taking extra time when explaining complex topics, breaking down information into smaller portions etc., so that everyone can comprehend what is being said without difficulty regardless whether English is primary language or not. It may also be beneficial create visual aids such as diagrams diagrams if required alongside educational resources which provide more detailed information about certain medical conditions along with appropriate treatments for each one.
In addition providing easy-to-understand instructions regarding how take medications correctly or manage existing conditions (e.g., diabetes); proper education should be given people looking forward undertake surgery procedure since understanding risks involved can help reduce chances complications during aftercare period hence allowing person fully recover faster while enjoying greater quality life overall.
Overall these strategies should allow better understanding between patient doctor thus aiding latter come up suitable solutions addressing any concerns former might have whatever those may be; eventually leading towards improved health outcomes within specified community/society over long run