Aim and objectives:
Low health literacy is linked to higher health risks and poorer treatment outcomes, negatively impacting individuals and increasing healthcare system costs. Studies show that one in two people in Germany has insufficient health literacy. This stems from individual circumstances and the inherent complexity of the healthcare system. Improvements can be achieved at both individual and organizational levels, as exemplified by the concept of the “health-literate organization.” Such organizations help patients navigate and understand health-related information, enabling them to make informed decisions.
Target group:
Healthcare professionals
Method:
The PIKoG project aims to develop a communication concept that promotes organizational health literacy in hospitals, thereby enhancing patient health literacy.
Developed in collaboration with patients and staff at selected clinics of the PIUS Hospital in Oldenburg, the concept was piloted and evaluated across four departments.
By strengthening communication skills within specific professions, the project improves the health literacy of both the participating hospitals and their patients.
Beyond training, supportive measures are developed to optimize consultation environments, such as providing quiet rooms and multilingual patient resources.
Outcome and Added Value:
Improving health literacy in Germany requires both patient-centered measures and enhanced communication skills among healthcare professionals. Staff must be trained to assess patients' health literacy levels and communicate effectively. The PIKoG research project delivers and evaluates a tailored communication concept to meet this need. Crucially, the project helps establish organizational structures that promote health literacy within institutions. Supported by a practical guide and actionable recommendations, the project results are designed to be transferable to other healthcare facilities, providing a scalable measure to strengthen staff communication and foster health-literate organizations.
