Which term refers to the range of health services provided over time?

The term "care continuum" refers to the comprehensive range of health services that are tailored to meet the needs of patients as they move through various stages of health and medical care over time. This concept encompasses a wide array of services, from preventative care and routine check-ups to acute care, chronic disease management, rehabilitation, and end-of-life care. The care continuum emphasizes the importance of seamless transitions between different levels of care, ensuring that patients receive the appropriate interventions at each stage of their healthcare journey.

In contrast, while health literacy pertains to how well individuals understand health information and can make informed decisions about their care, care coordination focuses specifically on the organization and integration of services to enhance patient care. Patient advocacy involves supporting and representing patients' interests but does not encompass the full spectrum of services provided over time that the care continuum concept conveys. Thus, the care continuum is the most accurate term for describing the range of health services offered across a patient's lifespan and various healthcare environments.