Health literacy in patients requiring joint replacement

ABSTRACT

Objectives: To assess the general and musculoskeletal health literacy in a group of patients requiring joint replacement at the public hospitals. To determine factors associated with both general and musculoskeletal health literacy. Design and Methodology: In this cross-sectional study, a convenience sample of 82 patients completed a demographic survey as well as the Newest Vital Sign (NVS), a general health literacy tool, and the Literacy in Musculoskeletal Problems (LiMP) which assesses musculoskeletal health literacy. Statistical analysis was performed using Stata version 15, chi-squared tests were used to determine the relationships between general and musculoskeletal health literacy and demographic variables. Results: There was 61 females and 21 male patients (74% and 26% respectively) with a mean age of 63.5 years (SD +/- 8.2) . The mean score for the NVS was 2.3 (SD +/-0.9) {> 3 indicates adequate General Health Literacy}and LiMP 3.7 (SD+/- 1.7) {>5 indicates adequate Musculoskeletal Health Literacy}. Male patients, secondary school education, being employed and previous healthcare experience were all statistically associated with higher NVS and LiMP scores. Conclusion: Inadequate general and musculoskeletal health literacy (90% and 80% respectively) was found in the majority of patients. The inability to make good decisions about health care due to insufficient health literacy is associated with poor outcomes and increased utilisation of resources. Greater emphasis should be placed on educational campaigns to improve health literacy.