What is one consequence of low health literacy on hospital admissions?

Low health literacy significantly impacts a patient's ability to navigate the healthcare system effectively, which can lead to increased hospital admissions. When individuals struggle to understand health information, they may not adhere to treatment plans, manage their chronic conditions effectively, or recognize when to seek medical assistance. This can result in complications that necessitate hospitalization. Studies have shown that low health literacy is linked to increased hospital admissions, with estimates suggesting that this increase can be around 6%. Therefore, acknowledging this statistic helps healthcare professionals realize the importance of clear communication and education strategies to improve health literacy, ultimately aiming to enhance patient outcomes and reduce unnecessary hospitalizations.