An outcome of health empowerment is

• A. Reduced patient knowledge
• B. More frequent hospital readmissions
• C. Improved ability to participate in care decisions through knowledge and skills
• D. Higher cost without benefits

Answer: (C)

Health empowerment aims to give patients the tools to actively participate in their care. The best outcome is an improved ability to participate in care decisions through knowledge and skills because when patients understand their condition, treatment options, and how to monitor symptoms, they can discuss preferences, ask informed questions, and collaborate with clinicians. This shared decision making often leads to better adherence, greater satisfaction, and improved health outcomes.

Empowerment does not produce reduced knowledge, more frequent hospital readmissions, or higher costs without benefits; those outcomes would reflect disempowerment or poorer care coordination, not the intended effect of empowering patients.