Health Literacy Month: Understanding and Using Health Information
October is Health Literacy Month. It’s a great time to learn how to understand and use health information. Being health literate means you can find, understand, and use information to make good decisions about your health. It can help you:
- Read medication labels
- Pick a health plan
- Ask your doctor questions
Many people struggle with health information. Medical words can be confusing. But you don’t need to be a doctor to understand your health. You just need the right tools and support.
At Fidelis Care, we believe everyone deserves clear, simple health information. We want to help you feel confident about your healthcare. Here are some tips:
Ask Questions
If you don’t understand instructions from your doctor, ask them to explain it in a simpler way. It’s fine to say, “Can you say that again in plain language?”
Take a Friend
Having someone with you at appointments can help. They can take notes or remind you of questions.
Use Trusted Sources
Get health information from reliable places like Fidelis Care, your healthcare provider’s office, or other trusted health organizations.
Know Your Medications
Make a list of all the medications you take. Know what each one does and how to take it safely.
Keep Records
Save copies of your medical records, test results, and insurance papers. This helps you stay organized and informed.
Health information often includes words that may be new or confusing. Learning what these terms mean can help you feel more confident when talking to your doctor or reading about your care.
Here are some common terms:
Appointment: A scheduled visit with a healthcare provider.
Copay: A fixed amount you pay for a health service, like a doctor’s visit or prescription. For example, you might pay $20 at the time of your visit, and your insurance covers the rest.
Coverage: The health services your insurance plan pays for.
Deductible: The amount you pay for health care services before your insurance starts to help.
Health Literacy: The ability to understand and use health information to make good decisions.
Insurance: A plan that helps pay for your medical care.
Medical Records: Papers that show your health history and care.
Medication: A drug or medicine used to treat or prevent illness.
Prescription: A written order from a doctor for medication.
Reliable Source: A place you can trust to give correct and safe information.
Treatment Plan: A guide created by a healthcare provider that explains how to care for your health issues.
When you understand your health, you’re more likely to get the care you need. You can avoid mistakes, follow treatment plans, and feel more in control.
Fidelis Care is here to support you. We offer resources, member services, and community programs to help. This Health Literacy Month, take a step toward better understanding and better health.
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