RTI uses cookies to offer you the best experience online. By clicking “accept” on this website, you opt in and you agree to the use of cookies. If you would like to know more about how RTI uses cookies and how to manage them please view our Privacy Policy here. You can “opt out” or change your mind by visiting: http://optout.aboutads.info/. Click “accept” to agree.
Shifting away from a deficit model of health literacy
McCormack, L. A., McBride, C. M., & Paasche-Orlow, M. K. (2016). Shifting away from a deficit model of health literacy. Journal of Health Communication, 21(sup2), 4-5. https://doi.org/10.1080/10810730.2016.1212131
The field of health literacy continues to advance in important ways. One of the most significant developments has been a shift in viewing health literacy based on an individual deficit model perspective to a more system-wide asset model. This involves recognizing the role of interventional support and health care system infrastructure to enhance health literacy at the individual, community, and clinical levels. This is not just a politically correct platitude but is a critical step in the evolution of the field of health literacy as we work together to find solutions. Taken together, the articles in this special issue help us to continue asking provocative questions about how best to inform, support, and care for individuals with a range of health literacy levels as well as transform health care and public health to benefit all members of our society.
