Paving the way for Health Literacy: Meet Ima Littleoff

Purpose:
Health literacy has been defined as the number one predictor of health(JAMA, 1999). According to the IOM, nearly 50% of Americans struggle with understanding their prescriptions, diagnostic tests, and the core components of their disease. Patient safety hinges on their ability to understand.

Significance:
According to the NAAL in 2003, only 12% of health care consumers are proficient in area of health literacy. Misunderstanding & misconception of care leave patient's highly vulnerable to mistake and error. The skill level needed to navigate the system puts patients further at risk.

Strategy and Implementation:
As an interdisciplinary team, and with consultation from other facilities, we have designed a program to address health literacy with our physicians and nurses. Through this program staff learn practical bedside skills to improve patient understanding and engagement. Using the National Action Plan model, our system is addressing the health literacy needs of the patient. As a part of this innovation, and in an attempt to engage staff in the concept of health literacy, Mrs. Ima Littleoff was born. Ima is a geriatric patient of a local nurse practitioner, whose hijinks and laughter make the subject of health literacy more palatable. Ima's graphic tales of troubles faced when navigating the healthcare system have served as great teaching tool and inspired staff to get more involved in evidence-based patient education. Staff is learning to understand health literacy, and with Ima - they're enjoying it! We are forging a path; getting ready, and improving patient care.

Evaluation:
Evaluation is currently measured by awareness of topic. Success is measured by number of departments adjusting current practice to become more health literate. Currently, all major product lines have requested education, and are redesigning patient communication within the system.

Implications for Practice:
Providers must learn to recognize misleading language. Further instruction for all clinicians can improve compliance, outcomes and yes – even patient satisfaction scores. We are partners in healthcare, and must help our patients navigate the overwhelming demands of our health care system.