Historical and Contemporary Aspects of Health Literacy in Certified Health Education Practice

Abstract

ABSTRACT Health Education Specialists’ (HES) role in health literacy is paramount. Health literacy has been immersed within health education practice for decades, as evidenced by past health education practice analyses. Health literacy is developed and enhanced through a variety of educational, environmental, and policy interventions designed to foster greater personal and community influence over a range of determinants of health. HES are instrumental in fostering health literacy and engaging and empowering individuals to improve individual and community health outcomes. The most recent health education practice analysis, HESPA II-2020, validated eight Areas of Responsibility, all of which relate to health literacy. This article highlights how health literacy is embedded in the work of HES as they assess population needs, plan and implement programs, develop and deliver communication and educational interventions, conduct evaluation and research, administer programs, and engage in advocacy work. Health literacy is also threaded within the profession’s Code of Ethics. Earning CHES® or MCHES® certification demonstrates HES possess professional competency and commitment to the health education profession. Engaging in health literacy professional development advances the capacity of HES in all Areas of Responsibility associated with the Certified Health Education Specialist profession. A AJHE Self-Study quiz is online for this article via the SHAPE America Online Institute (SAOI) http://portal.shapeamerica.org/trn-Webinars