The article by Angela Coulter and Jo Ellins reviews the effectiveness of strategies to inform, educate, and involve patients in their healthcare. It highlights substantial evidence supporting the benefits of patient engagement, which can improve quality, efficiency, and health outcomes. However, critics argue that patient engagement is politically correct and lacks scientific basis. The authors emphasize that health literacy is crucial for patient engagement, as it enables patients to understand and act on health information. They discuss various patient-focused interventions, including written materials, websites, and decision aids, which have been shown to improve patient knowledge, experience, and health behavior. The article also addresses the importance of shared decision-making, self-care, and patient safety, noting that these areas require further research to address health literacy disparities and improve long-term outcomes. Despite the challenges, the authors conclude that there is a substantial evidence base for strengthening patient engagement, and all strategies should aim to enhance health literacy to ensure equitable access to healthcare.The article by Angela Coulter and Jo Ellins reviews the effectiveness of strategies to inform, educate, and involve patients in their healthcare. It highlights substantial evidence supporting the benefits of patient engagement, which can improve quality, efficiency, and health outcomes. However, critics argue that patient engagement is politically correct and lacks scientific basis. The authors emphasize that health literacy is crucial for patient engagement, as it enables patients to understand and act on health information. They discuss various patient-focused interventions, including written materials, websites, and decision aids, which have been shown to improve patient knowledge, experience, and health behavior. The article also addresses the importance of shared decision-making, self-care, and patient safety, noting that these areas require further research to address health literacy disparities and improve long-term outcomes. Despite the challenges, the authors conclude that there is a substantial evidence base for strengthening patient engagement, and all strategies should aim to enhance health literacy to ensure equitable access to healthcare.