What the Data Say: The Utility of Better Health Literacy during and beyond COVID-19

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this paper was to identify the reported need for health literacy related to the COVID-19 pandemic. We explored the role of health literacy in people’s understanding and acceptance of scientific evidence and digital information during the COVID-19 infodemic and beyond. Methods: We followed PRISMA guidelines to guide our scoping review and synthesize relevant sources of literature related to health literacy and COVID-19. PRISMA guidelines helped to identify inclusion/exclusion criteria to assess time period and quality sources from academic papers. Results: A total of 397 articles were screened, with 44 articles meeting criteria. We identified the necessity of health-literate individuals and data through examples of “information pollution” contributing to the infodemic. We reflected on some key COVID-19 lessons learned, sharing examples and approaches using a health literacy lens in our public health response within our digital landscape. Conclusions: This review highlights the need to enhance health literacy skills among individuals, organizations, and governments to empower citizens and communities by bridging the digital health information gap among scientists, public health officials, and the public. More work is needed for effective health literacy capacity building to navigate science, enhance accurate online health communication, and minimize controversies for future public health crises.