What does the term "health literacy" refer to?

Health literacy refers to the ability to obtain, process, and understand basic health information and services in a way that enables individuals to make informed health-related decisions. This encompasses not just reading health-related articles, but also interpreting medical instructions, navigating the healthcare system, and understanding the implications of health information on personal health. It is crucial for individuals to comprehend not only information from articles but also prescription labels, consent forms, and the implications of medical decisions in order to effectively manage their health and wellness.

While the other options touch on aspects of health literacy, they do not capture its full essence. For example, simply reading articles or understanding medical terminology does not imply the ability to apply that information effectively in real-life health situations. The focus on making informed decisions underscores the practical application of health knowledge, which is central to health literacy.