http://www.ahrq.gov/clinic/epcsums/litsum.htm
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality
Studies reveal that low literacy is associated with poor understanding of written or spoken medical advice, adverse health outcomes, and negative effects on the health of the population. Given that low literacy may affect health and well-being negatively, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality commissioned an evidence report from the RTI International-University of North Carolina Evidence-based Practice Center. This report summarizes findings regarding the relationship between literacy and health outcomes and the evidence about interventions intended to improve the health of people with low literacy.