Prescription labels and health literacy

In preparing a presentation, I’ve been reading about the changes in medication labels. The impact in numbers seems difficult to obtain. Some studies mention 100,000 deaths per year, another reports over 1 million physician visits and emergency room visits are due to incorrect use of medication. The errors are due to misunderstanding labels. I just reviewed my meds and am happy to report I can understand them. The improvements with establishing a Universal Medication Schedule (UMS) under the direction of the Institute of Medicine (IOM) has undoubtedly made an impact. This endeavor shows how vitally important it is to make sure health literacy is addressed in every aspect of healthcare. Check your meds.