A study on health literacy: Aksaray province as a case example

Health literacy is a concept that affects individuals' health status. It is influenced by many factors, and low health literacy is associated with poor health outcomes. The impact of health literacy on individuals' health also indirectly affects the healthcare system in terms of efficiency and cost. This study aims to determine the level of health literacy in the community and the factors influencing it, as well as to examine the relationships between individuals' preferred healthcare institutions and their health literacy level, income level, education level, and employment status. The research is a cross-sectional study conducted with 370 individuals aged 18–65 who applied to the No. 10 Family Health Center in the city center of Aksaray. A sociodemographic data form and the Health Literacy Scale (HLS-SF12) were used as data collection tools. It was determined that the data were normally distributed, and the following statistical methods were applied: independent samples t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), Spearman correlation test, and chi-square analysis. Statistical significance was accepted at p<0.05. The mean health literacy score of the participants was 32.84±9.34 (n=370). When the scores were grouped: 18.9% had inadequate health literacy, 28.9% problematic health literacy, 35.7% sufficient health literacy, and 16.5% excellent health literacy. Statistically significant relationships were found between health literacy scores and the presence of health problems, having chronic diseases, using medication based on others' recommendations, age, education level, and employment status (p<.001); and with marital status, regular use of prescriptions, and income level (p<0.05). A statistically significant relationship was also found between total health literacy scores and age and education level (p<.001), and with income level (p<0.05). Furthermore, significant relationships were found between the first preferred healthcare institution and age and employment status (p<.001), and with education and income level (p<0.05). As in many previous studies, this study also found health literacy levels to be low. The results of this study, along with previous findings, reveal multiple variables that influence health literacy. Reforms and innovations in health and education policies that consider these variables could contribute to the improvement of health literacy. These changes could lead to enhanced quality and efficiency in the healthcare services provided. The development of health literacy should not be left solely to the responsibility of the healthcare system. Since health literacy is influenced by the sociocultural environment and economic conditions of society, it is essential that society, policymakers, individuals, healthcare institutions, and healthcare professionals share responsibility and develop competencies in this area to ensure a sustainable healthcare system.