Examining the state of educational outcomes from a health-related perspective

Health literacy (HL), the degree to which individuals can obtain, process and understand basic health information and services needed to make appropriate health decisions, is touted as a crucial determinant of health and well-being. Others consider it as an important mechanism for addressing development gaps and inequalities. However, achieving sufficient levels of HL is challenging due to often striking differences in needs of various groupings such as children, youth and older persons. Nevertheless, research across the globe iterate that level of education is the primary determinant of HL. Indeed, some argue that HL is an outcome of education. These assertions put the principal burden of ensuring health literate societies at the doorstep of education systems. This paper questions the extent to which such conjectures hold true in the context of Ghana. It examines the HL levels among persons with tertiary and senior high school education. In the context of the study area, this group are expected to possess adequate skills and knowledge to navigate the health system efficiently and take charge of their health. The study also analyses the factors associated with possible low HL among this group. About 37% of participants had limited HL. The incidence of low HL was associated with low income, living in rural area, and having agriculture and commerce as the main occupation. It appears that education has minimal impact on the health-related lives of known socially disadvantaged groups such as the poor, and rural dwellers. The findings call for collaborative efforts in ensuring equitable access to formal education to assure quality outcomes for all population groups.