Identifying Dimensions of Organizational Health Literacy in Hospitals: A Scoping Review

Meghdad  Rahati; Zahra  Sakeni; Abdolhosein  Kalantari; Masoud  Etedali; Alireza  Ganjipour; Ali  Valinejadi

doi:10.18502/ijph.v54i9.19855

Meghdad Rahati Department of Health Management, Khomein University of Medical Sciences, Khomein, Iran
Zahra Sakeni Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
Abdolhosein Kalantari Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Science, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran
Masoud Etedali Department of Nursing, Khomein University of Medical Sciences, Khomein, Iran
Alireza Ganjipour Department of Clinical Sciences, Khomein University of Medical Sciences, Khomein, Iran
Ali Valinejadi Department of Health Information Technology, Khomein University of Medical Sciences, Khomein, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/ijph.v54i9.19855

Keywords: Organizational health literacy; Hospitals; Health literacy management; Scoping review; Patient safety; Electron-ic health literacy

Abstract

Background: Organizational health literacy (OHL) plays a crucial role in improving patients’ understanding and engagement in hospital care. Despite its importance, little is known about the comprehensive dimensions of OHL from a managerial perspective. This study aimed to identify key dimensions that can influence OHL in hospital settings to enhance patient care.

Methods: A scoping review was conducted to examine studies published from 2012-2024 regarding OHL in hospitals. Relevant studies were identified using a structured search strategy across multiple databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Overall, 39 articles were selected after screening, and content analysis was performed using MAXQDA-10. The review adhered to the PRISMA guidelines for scoping reviews.

Results: The analysis identified six core dimensions of OHL: (i) leadership and management, (ii) policy and strategy formulation, (iii) human resources, (iv) organizational resources (including financial, physical, and informational), (v) processes, products, and services, and (vi) results. These dimensions were further categorized into 21 subcategories. Each dimension outlines essential components for improving hospital OHL, such as leadership support, staff training, communication strategies, and resource allocation. Additionally, the study highlights the role of technology, including electronic health literacy, in improving organizational performance.

Conclusion: By addressing the key dimensions that influence organizational health literacy in hospitals, hospital administrators can enhance patient understanding of healthcare services, improve safety and satisfaction levels, and foster a culture of health literacy. The provided framework offers a valuable management approach for integrating OHL into hospital operations, potentially leading to more informed and health-literate patient communities.