An event in Madison this week organized by Wisconsin Literacy will help people understand information about their own health. Executive Director Michelle Erikson says the conference will unite health providers and adult literacy providers.
Health literacy problems affect not only people who cannot read well, Erikson says only 12% of American adults are proficient in health literacy. Problems may include not being able to properly interpret x-rays, lab tests, or insurance and medical forms.
Worse case scenario the lack of comprehension could lead to death with patients not knowing comprehending the effects of surgery or prescriptions.
Erikson also says it bogs down the system, as in Wisconsin up to $7.6 billion is spent on unnecessary health care annually.
The conference is March 31 and April1 at the Alliant Energy Center.