HLTLIT X200 - Health Literacy - It's Time to Take It Seriously!
This self-paced module introduces learners to the foundational principles of health literacy and is recommended as the first course in the Health Literacy Distance Education Program. Participants will examine the widespread effects of low health literacy, including its impact on patient outcomes, healthcare systems, and public health. The module also discusses national survey findings, populations most at risk, and opportunities for providers to address and improve health communication practices.
Delivery Options
Online Self-Paced: A course that is available fully online with no scheduled class sessions or fixed due dates. You can start coursework at any time and work through it independently at your own pace, within the timeframe designated. Online modules may include readings, lecture videos, assignments, quizzes, and more.
Time to Completion
This course is projected to take approximately 5 hours to complete.
Course Completion Requirements
Successful completion of this course requires viewing all module content and earning a passing score on any included assessments. A certificate of completion will be awarded.
Technology Requirements
- Reliable Internet connection
- Use Google Chrome browser for Windows or MacOS (ensure both browser and OS are up to date)
- Canvas relies on HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for accessibility compliance
- Tablets and smartphones (iOS 7+/Android 4.2+) may be used, but desktop/laptop devices offer the best experience
- Adobe Acrobat Reader (free download)
What You’ll Learn
- Define the general literacy and health literacy problem in the U.S.
- Describe findings from the 2003 NAAL and the PIAAC surveys and their implications for healthcare providers
- Identify populations at risk for low health literacy
- Explain the impact of low health literacy on health behaviors, outcomes, and healthcare utilization
- Identify barriers that contribute to low health literacy in the U.S.
- Explain how patients, clinicians, and systems contribute to the underrecognition of low health literacy
- Describe the mismatch between adult literacy levels and the complexity of health materials, including consequences and solutions
What You’ll Earn
- A certificate of completion issued by The Ohio State University
Additional Information
Accessibility support is available to all learners. For assistance, contact the College of Medicine Digital Accessibility Coordinator at DigitalAccessibility@osumc.edu.
Contact Us
For questions about enrollment, payment options, technology support, or course records, please contact our Enrollment Support team. Inquiries are typically answered within 24 business hours.
For questions about course content or learning objectives, please contact the instructional team at ScarletCanvasMedEd@osu.edu.