http://ijhpm.com Int J Health Policy Manag 2015, 4(11), 747–755
doi 10.15171/ijhpm.2015.151
Original Article Health Literacy Impact on National Healthcare Utilization and Expenditure Rafia S. Rasu1*, Walter Agbor Bawa1, Richard Suminski2, Kathleen Snella3, Bradley Warady4 Abstract Background: Health literacy presents an enormous challenge in the delivery of effective healthcare and quality outcomes. We evaluated the impact of low health literacy (LHL) on healthcare utilization and healthcare expenditure. Methods: Database analysis used Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) from 2005-2008 which provides nationally representative estimates of healthcare utilization and expenditure. Health literacy scores (HLSs) were calculated based on a validated, predictive model and were scored according to the National Assessment of Adult Literacy (NAAL). HLS ranged from 0-500. Health literacy level (HLL) and categorized in 2 groups: Below basic or basic (HLS
doi 10.15171/ijhpm.2015.151
Original Article Health Literacy Impact on National Healthcare Utilization and Expenditure Rafia S. Rasu1*, Walter Agbor Bawa1, Richard Suminski2, Kathleen Snella3, Bradley Warady4 Abstract Background: Health literacy presents an enormous challenge in the delivery of effective healthcare and quality outcomes. We evaluated the impact of low health literacy (LHL) on healthcare utilization and healthcare expenditure. Methods: Database analysis used Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) from 2005-2008 which provides nationally representative estimates of healthcare utilization and expenditure. Health literacy scores (HLSs) were calculated based on a validated, predictive model and were scored according to the National Assessment of Adult Literacy (NAAL). HLS ranged from 0-500. Health literacy level (HLL) and categorized in 2 groups: Below basic or basic (HLS
