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International Journal of Public Health

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Open Access 01-10-2009 | Review

The costs of limited health literacy: a systematic review

Authors: Klaus Eichler, Simon Wieser, Urs Brügger

Published in: International Journal of Public Health | Issue 5/2009

Abstract

Objectives

To summarize evidence about (1) the costs of limited health literacy (HL) and (2) the cost-effectiveness of interventions to improve limited HL.

Methods

We performed a systematic review searching electronic databases and additional information resources. We included observational studies and interventional studies with HL-outcomes. We included populations at high risk for low HL and patients with (1) diabetes mellitus or (2) hyperlipidemia.

Results

We retrieved 2,340 papers and included 10 studies for analysis. The prevalence of limited HL is considerable (range 34–59%). On the health system level, the additional costs of limited HL range from 3 to 5% of the total health care cost per year. On the patient level, the additional expenditures per year per person with limited HL compared to persons with adequate HL range from US $143 to 7,798. Data on the cost-effectiveness of interventions to improve limited HL are scarce.

Conclusion

The costs of limited HL may be substantial, but few studies were retrieved and the results are heterogeneous.

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Title: The costs of limited health literacy: a systematic review
Authors: Klaus Eichler
Simon Wieser
Urs Brügger
Publication date: 01-10-2009
Publisher: SP Birkhäuser Verlag Basel
Published in: International Journal of Public Health / Issue 5/2009
Print ISSN: 1661-8556
Electronic ISSN: 1661-8564
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00038-009-0058-2

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Springer Medicine

The costs of limited health literacy: a systematic review

Abstract

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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