Results of the process of implementation of ISO 7101 subclause 8.10.5 Health literacy in specialty consultations.

Abstract

Objective: This quasi-experimental, non-randomized study described the process of implementing ISO 7101 subclause 8.10.5 Health literacy in specialty consultations, then determined the effects of implementation on patient general health literacy scores and perceptions of quality of care.

Method: Implementation steps were outlined, nurses were trained and used a standardized health literacy checklist with patients. The HLS₁₉-Q12 was used to calculate patients' general health literacy scores pre- and post-implementation of subclause 8.10.5. Paired samples t-test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test determined relationships between implementation, health literacy score, and quality of care perceived.

Results: Mean general health literacy scores increased post-implementation from 66.35 to 76.29, as did the mean score of perception of quality of care received (M=3.87 to M=3.99). Wilcoxon test for both variables was significant (P<.001), and effect size was large (d≥0.8).

Conclusions: Implementation of ISO 7101, subclause 8.10.5 Health literacy had a positive, statistically significant impact on patient general health literacy scores and perceptions of quality of care. This is valuable information for healthcare management decision makers as they implement new standards and seek to improve patient health outcomes.