Abstract Health literacy (HL) is increasingly recognised as a determinant of health and a prerequisite for equitable healthcare. While professional health literacy (pHL) has been studied primarily among physicians and nurses, less is known about occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and speech and language therapy (OPSL) professions. This perspective paper, developed by an Interprofessional European Working Group from Austria, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland, explores the current state and educational integration of pHL in OPSL professions across these four countries. An analysis of national frameworks, initiatives, and educational practices related to pHL was conducted, drawing on policy documents, national surveys (e.g. HLS19, HLS-PROF), and expert experience within the working group. Findings reveal heterogeneous progress across countries. Austria demonstrates comprehensive HL strategies and curricular integration, while Germany and Switzerland have initiated policy and educational activities to foster pHL. In contrast, Italy shows limited systemic implementation. Across contexts, challenges for health professionals (HP) persist in digital HL, conveying information and knowledge, and patient involvement and shared decision-making. Given that OPSL professionals are likely to face similar challenges regarding pHL knowledge, skills, and attitudes, we advocate for a structured and practice-oriented approach to integrate pHL more strongly into OPSL education. This topic is the focus of our Interprofessional European Working Group.
Wieser et al. (Tue,) studied this question.