Figure 1.

A conceptual framework for the influence of three major components on health outcome in the setting of the clinical encounter for both patients and caregivers: demographic factors, health literacy factors, and health status. Patient demographic factors include age, sex, ethnic group, and socioeconomic status. Acculturation and assimilation are also important demographic factors, encompassing language and culture. Health literacy factors include the health literacy of the patient and caregiver as well as the health care delivery itself and the health care information being conveyed. Patient health status includes disease, impairments, functional limitations, and disability. (Color figure available online.)