[Need for more research in patients' health literacy]

This paper introduces the concept of health literacy to the Danish health field by sharing the definition, conceptual model and matrix from the European Health Literacy Survey (HLS-EU). The general results of the HLS-EU are presented to show how health literacy can be measured, and how limited health literacy is a challenge for various European countries. The fact that the term health literacy is not easily translated into Danish might be a barrier for its wider use and dissemination. However, this should not be an excuse for lack of attention or action in Danish health services.