Problems related to health literacy

This code identifies situations where a patient's limited ability to obtain, process, and understand basic health information and services is impacting their care. This can manifest as difficulty comprehending medical instructions, navigating the healthcare system, or making appropriate health decisions. It reflects a barrier to effective patient engagement and self-management.

Apply this code when a provider documents that a patient's low health literacy is a contributing factor to their health problems, non-adherence to treatment, or poor health outcomes. This could be observed during patient education attempts, medication reconciliation, or discussions about follow-up care. It's appropriate when the lack of understanding directly influences the patient's health status or management.

• Always link this code to a primary diagnosis that is being impacted by the patient's health literacy.
• Ensure provider documentation clearly supports the assessment of health literacy as a problem, not just a general observation.
• This code is for the problem related to health literacy, not for the act of providing health education.