I am a big supporter and believer that there is a problem with “health literacy” in this country. Described by the American Medical Association, Health literacy is “the ability to obtain, process, and understand basic health information and services needed to make appropriate health decisions and follow instructions for treatment.”
The AMA Foundation came out with a film being used to explain health literacy to the medical profession. Feel free to watch the film and come back with your own opinion. View film here
If, I could speak to Mrs. Walker, I would first tell her that intelligence is not about using big words that others don’t understand. Actually, using “big” words is actually a sign of insecurity or it can even be inconsiderate. People know what others can and can not understand – in most cases. If someone is considerate, in tune to others feelings or comfort level, they should recognize if someone does or doesn’t understand.
Mrs. Walker keeps using the word “intelligent” which makes this film good for the doctors, but what does it do for the rest of us who do not have a an education in health but may be brilliant in other areas?
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