How does health literacy influence healthcare quality?

High health literacy is crucial in influencing healthcare quality because it empowers patients to understand their health conditions and available treatment options effectively. When patients possess strong health literacy skills, they can engage more actively in their healthcare decisions, interpret medical instructions correctly, and follow treatment plans more diligently. This understanding contributes to better adherence to medications, higher rates of preventive care utilization, and a greater likelihood of patients seeking timely care.

As a result, patients with higher health literacy typically experience improved health outcomes, reduced hospitalizations, and more favorable experiences within the healthcare system. By fostering better communication between healthcare providers and patients, high health literacy ultimately enhances the quality of care and patient satisfaction as well. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the direct correlation between health literacy and positive health outcomes.