HLTLIT X205 - Health Literacy - You Can't Tell By Looking!: Assessing a Patient's Ability to Read and Understand Health Information
This module explores how to assess a patient’s ability to read and understand health information. Health professionals will learn how to recognize signs of low literacy, consider the ethical implications of testing, and utilize validated tools such as the REALM, TOFHLA, and Newest Vital Sign. The module also includes strategies for observing behaviors and asking targeted questions to identify patients who may need additional support.
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
- Tablet and smartphone compatible (iOS 7+/Android 4.2+); desktop or laptop preferred
- Adobe Acrobat Reader (free download)
What You’ll Learn
- Discuss whether or not to test a person for literacy level
- Identify behavioral and communication clues that may indicate low literacy
- Use assessment questions to help uncover literacy challenges
- Describe tools for measuring reading skills, including REALM and WRAT-R-III
- Describe tools for measuring comprehension, including TOFHLA, Short TOFHLA, Listening Test, and Newest Vital Sign
What You’ll Earn
- A certificate of completion issued by The Ohio State University’s Professional and Continuing Education program
Additional Information
For accessibility support, please 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.