How can you advocate for health literacy in underrepresented communities?

As a global public health practitioner I have found it to be a huge help navigating and practicing between sectors, disciplines and communities, by dropping my titles, and not emphasising my credentials - this can go a long way to building a trusting relationship with positive interactions. ? Due diligence - have you done your research? ? Adapting language is most useful - everyone has different comprehension > Instead of saying " I am a neuroscientist and psychologist. " " I actively study the brain to see how it works when it has to process certain behaviours & activities, then respond or react negatively or positively. These observations & tests help to save lives everyday. " ? Leave your ego at the door. There will always be haters

The first step in advocating for health literacy is to assess your clients' needs and preferences for health information and services. Use tools like the Newest Vital Sign or the Health Literacy Questionnaire to evaluate their health literacy skills and identify both strengths and challenges. Additionally, ask clients about their preferred sources, formats, and languages for health information, as well as their personal goals, values, and concerns. Understanding these factors enables you to tailor interventions and referrals that match their health literacy level and effectively support their self-management.

Mark found himself nodding along as his doctor explained a new treatment, pretending he understood every word. ?? Halfway through, he whispered to his friend, "Is it bad if I don’t know the difference between a lipid and a pancake?" ?? The friend suggested using simpler terms, and Mark beamed, “Ah, now I get it!” ?? Meaningful health conversations should always match a person’s understanding—no pancake confusion necessary! ????

Health literacy is a person's ability to find, understand, use, or communicate about health information. It's important to empower communities to make informed health decisions. The challenge is HOW? We have to understand that every community is different. They have different beliefs, traditions, lifestyles, and customs, and every community follows them religiously. Based on my experience and understanding of marketing, I propose to modify and tailor health literacy concepts in the most simplified language and in a way that resonates with their beliefs, traditions and lifestyle making sure that their sentiments are not hurt and their beliefs and customs are not disregarded. Only then we can see the progress we are aiming to achieve.

Advocating for health literacy in underrepresented communities isn’t just about spreading information; it’s about listening and connecting. Start by partnering with trusted voices in the community—people who already know and understand local challenges. Instead of throwing around medical jargon, break things down into everyday language and relatable examples. Invite questions, and take the time to answer them without rushing or judgment. Most importantly, recognize and respect each community’s unique needs and values. Health literacy becomes real change when it’s approached with empathy, patience, and a genuine willingness to help people feel empowered in their own health choices.

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The second step in advocating for health literacy is to communicate clearly and effectively with both your clients and their healthcare providers. Use techniques like the teach-back method, plain language, and visual aids to ensure clients understand the information and know what actions to take. Incorporate open-ended questions, active listening, and motivational interviewing to gather feedback, address misconceptions, and build rapport. Additionally, serve as a bridge between your clients and their healthcare providers by facilitating communication, clarifying medical terms, and advocating for clients’ needs and preferences.

You are only as effective as your ability to communicate. In these communities, where access to resources and healthcare can be limited, it’s especially important to break down complex information into straightforward, understandable language that respects each patient’s background and perspective. We need to create spaces where patients feel comfortable asking questions and where healthcare providers are trained to listen and respond with empathy. Partnering with local organizations, using culturally relevant materials, and providing resources in multiple languages can also make a significant difference. When we prioritize clear communication, we empower patients to better understand and manage their health, leading to improved outcomes.

The third step in advocating for health literacy is to educate and empower your clients to effectively access, evaluate, and use health information and services. Provide reliable and relevant resources tailored to their needs, such as trusted websites, brochures, videos, or apps. Teach clients how to find, understand, and interpret health information like labels, instructions, test results, and consent forms. Encourage them to ask questions, express concerns, and share their views with healthcare providers. Empower clients to seek second opinions, request an interpreter, or file a complaint when necessary.

The fourth step in advocating for health literacy is to collaborate and coordinate with other stakeholders involved in your clients' care and well-being. Partner with case managers, healthcare providers, social workers, educators, community leaders, and policymakers to share best practices, exchange information, and align strategies for promoting health literacy. Engage in networks, coalitions, or committees focused on health literacy initiatives at the local, regional, or national level. By working together, you can leverage collective resources, expertise, and influence to enhance health literacy in underrepresented communities.

The fifth step in advocating for health literacy is to foster a culture of health literacy within your organization and community. Advocate for policies and practices that support health literacy, such as using plain language, providing interpreters, offering training, and conducting regular evaluations. Raise awareness among colleagues, managers, and partners about the importance of health literacy and the unique challenges faced by underrepresented communities. Engage clients and their families in health literacy initiatives like workshops, campaigns, or peer support groups. By promoting a culture of health literacy, you help create an environment that values and empowers everyone’s ability to understand and use health information.