Health literacy and individuals’ perception regarding Heart Failure management: patient perspective

Abstract Background Heart failure (HF) is a multidimensional disease that has a significant impact on the quality of life of people with this condition and the person’s level of health literacy is a key element in disease management. Therefore, this analysis aims to assess the correlation between the level of health literacy of people with HF and their level of concern about managing the disease, their perception about quality of life, and access to healthcare. Methods Cross-sectional study conducted through a survey among adults with HF, residents, and healthcare consumers in Portugal. The survey comprised 6 questions on health literacy (HLS-EU-Q6); 9 dimensions of concerns in HF management (4-level scale ranging from “not concerned” to “very concerned”); quality of life and access to healthcare perceptions (5-level scale ranging from “very bad” to “very good”). Concerns global score was calculated based on 9 dimensions of concerns about HF management. The statistical analysis included Spearman’s and Pearson’s correlations. Results A total of 428 responses were analysed. Respondents had a mean age of 70 years, 52.1% were men and 67.9% have secondary education. 47.0% of respondents perceived their access to healthcare as “good”, 63.3 % perceived their quality of life as “reasonable” and 61% have low levels of health literacy. Individuals with a higher health literacy level tended to have lower levels of concerns regarding HF management (r=-0.133; p = 0.006); individuals with a higher level of health literacy tended to have a better perception of their access to healthcare (ρ = 0.145; p = 0.003) and quality of life (ρ = 0.220; p < 0.001). Conclusions The findings reinforce that overcoming health literacy obstacles must continue to be a focus of healthcare systems and institutions to enhance healthcare access, quality of life, and chronic disease management. These efforts may result in better health outcomes, promote health equity and general well-being in this population. Key messages • Individuals with Heart Failure with higher levels of health literacy report less concerns about the management of their condition. • Individuals with Heart Failure and lower levels of health literacy have a worst perception of their access to healthcare and quality of life. Health literacy promotion must continue to be a priority.