Library and Information Week 2025, theme is "To Read or Not to Read: Health Literacy Matters."
During Library and Information Week 2025, HNE Health Libraries highlighted the importance of fostering a health-literate environment for our consumers. In collaboration with HNELHD Clinical Governance, NSW Health's Statewide Health Literacy Hub and Sydney Health Literacy Lab(SHLL), the library promoted initiatives aimed at improving health literacy across the district.
Health literacy goes beyond simply understanding health information—it involves the ability to locate, interpret, and apply that information to make informed health decisions. In Australia, approximately 60% of people have low health literacy. By strengthening health literacy through partnerships with patients, families, and caregivers, we can help reduce healthcare costs and improve health outcomes. This aligns closely with NSQHS Standard 2: Partnering with Consumers, which emphasizes consumer engagement in health service governance and decision-making.
In support of this district-wide initiative, HNE Health Libraries hosted two informative events:
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AI and Health Literacy
An online webinar featured:
Dr. Julie Ayre, Sydney Health Literacy Lab, University of Sydney
Dr. Ayre presented research on the role of generative AI in simplifying complex health information, showcasing its potential to enhance readability and patient understanding. She also addressed associated risks, limitations, and safety considerations.
Dana Mouwad, Director, Statewide Health Literacy Hub
Dana shared a case study on the practical application of multilingual conversational voice AI, using a validated tool to screen for Long COVID in culturally and linguistically diverse communities. Her presentation offered insights into key considerations and risk assessment approaches when implementing AI in healthcare.
👉 WATCH NOW
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Bridging the gap: Health literacy, equity, and engagement
During the Adult Medicine Grand Rounds at John Hunter Hospital (Division of Medicine & Interventional Services), a cross-disciplinary panel included:
- Sam Wieczorek, proud Worimi woman, District Manager; Innovation Precinct Lead, and former District Manager – Aboriginal Health (Care Coordination)
- Ashley Young, Director of Multicultural and Refugee Health
- Nicole Coleman, Organ and Donation Team (in celebration of Organ Donation Week)
- Kendell Larsen, Social Worker, District Gender Service, Maple Leaf House
👉 WATCH NOW
Don't forget to explore the Health Literacy Specialty Guide on the Library website. Sign in using your StaffLink ID via the newly implemented single sign-on.