As we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, the realization of the importance of health literacy continues to grow. An article in the American Family Physician defines health literacy as "the capacity to obtain, process, and understand basic health information and services needed to make appropriate health care decisions". Literacy New York has participated in two recent events related to improving health literacy. In September, Literacy NY's Executive Director was asked to present a program to a group of Diabetes Educators in the Albany area. The presentation focused on making educational materials shared with patients easier for patients to read and understand. And in October, we were invited to present a Health Literacy talk to members of the Philip Howard NORC, where we offered seniors strategies for communicating with their healthcare providers.

A focus on improving adult literacy, and particularly health literacy, will save lives.