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Abstract
Although the issue of “health literacy” is not new, recent studies reveal that a significant number of North Americans cannot read and comprehend medical information provided to them by health professionals. This paper focuses on “health illiteracy” rather than “health literacy,” and suggests roles medical librarians can play in addressing the problem of low-literacy, which is associated with poorer health outcomes and an increased bottom line. Multiple patient literacy assessment tools are discussed, as well as formulae for determining “reading level” scores for written materials. Medical librarians can effect institutional change by better understanding the salient issues surrounding health illiteracy, and then applying their knowledge within the organizational structure of their individual medical facilities in order to foster personnel awareness, and ultimately drive policy.