Health literacy (HL) focuses on adequate access and proper utilization of health information which influences health management, health promotion, and disease prevention. This makes it essential in improving health outcomes particularly in low-and middle-income countries including the Philippines. Recent studies among Filipinos revealed an alarming rate of limited health literacy which may be associated with poor health-related behaviors, inefficient healthcare utilization, and possible health decline. This paper aims to address this by discussing the challenges faced by the Philippines in terms of limited access to health education, socio-economic disparities, linguistic diversity, and healthcare infrastructure issues which influence health literacy. It also highlights key strategies in enhancing HL through community health education while addressing these challenges. These include collaborative planning, drafting, and implementation of programs by multiple sectors such as government and non-governmental organizations, healthcare professionals, educators, policymakers, and community workers. To ensure efficient dissemination of health information, health education may be integrated into existing community structures such as schools and local government units. This ensures that programs are tailored specifically to target populations. Other strategies include utilizing digital platforms and electronic health tools to widen the program’s reach, training health professionals and educators on health promotion, conducting community assessments, and intensifying current HL initiatives. In conclusion, enhancing health literacy in the Philippines requires a comprehensive, multi-faceted, and targeted approach that must consider current disparities and diversities in its population. This is crucial in empowering individuals to take active steps in managing their health and contributing to improved health outcomes nationwide.

Authors:
Chastene Christopher Flake, Angeles University Foundation, Philippines

About the Presenter(s)
Ms. Chastene Christopher D. Flake is an assistant professor and accreditation officer at the Angeles University Foundation, Philippines. Her research interests include public health and non-communicable disease-related topics.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Thursday Schedule

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