A theory-based self-report measure of health literacy: The Calgary Charter on Health Literacy scale

Abstract

We set out to test a theory-based measure of health literacy. To do so, we included the newly developed Calgary Charter on Health Literacy scale in Pre- and Post-evaluation of the Life Enhancement Program at multiple sites. The program focusing on health literacy and the prevention of chronic disease is conducted with health-care provider organization partners across the United States. In testing the reliability and validity of the new measure of health literacy, Cronbach’s alpha is very acceptable level at 0.80. There are numerous statistically significant correlations between the change in health literacy and participants’ changes in knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, behaviors, and health status. Data and analysis indicate that the Calgary Charter on Health Literacy Scale is a valid and reliable measurement tool in the contexts and with the populations they were tested within. More testing is necessary and warranted in a wider variety of contexts and populations—ideally to include large representative random samples and comparison groups. We recommend that policymakers increase focus on advancing health literacy as an evidence-based approach to reach the goals of improved individual and public health at a lower cost.