The AMA ad hoc committee explores the scope and consequences of poor literacy in the United States.
Research indicates that poor literacy is both common, complex and linked to poor health.
The need for improved communication between patient and physician is essential. Healthcare policymakers are encouraged by the AMA to address this important issue with a broad policy agenda. Foltz, and Sullivan explore the connection between reading abilities and comprehension of medical information concerning cancer. Literature often written at a tenth grade level is inappropriate for more than half of intended patients. Indications for change are stressed particularly with the cancer patient literature.