Get to Know the National Action Plan to Improve Health Literacy The National Action Plan to Improve Health Literacy seeks to engage organizations, professionals,

policymakers, communities, individuals, and families in a linked, multisector effort to improve health literacy. The plan is based on the principles that (1) everyone has the right to health information that helps them make informed decisions and (2) health services should be delivered in ways that are understandable and beneficial to health, longevity, and quality of life. The vision informing this plan is of a society that: • Provides everyone with access to accurate and actionable health information, • Delivers person-centered health information and services, and • Supports lifelong learning and skills to promote good health. The National Action Plan includes seven goals that will improve health literacy and suggests strategies for achieving them: 1. Develop and disseminate health and safety information that is accurate, accessible, and actionable. 2. Promote changes in the health care system that improve health information, communication, informed decisionmaking, and access to health services. 3. Incorporate accurate, standards-based, and developmentally appropriate health and science information and curricula in child care and education through the university level. 4. Support and expand local efforts to provide adult education, English language instruction, and culturally and linguistically appropriate health information services in the community. 5. Build partnerships, develop guidance, and change policies. 6. Increase basic research and the development, implementation, and evaluation of practices and interventions to improve health literacy. 7. Increase the dissemination and use of evidence-based health literacy practices and interventions. Many of the strategies highlight actions that particular organizations or professions can take to further these goals. It will take everyone working together to improve access to accurate and actionable health information and usable health services.