October is Health Literacy Month! This month-long campaign is dedicated to raising awareness about the crucial role health literacy plays in our lives. In this post, we explore what health literacy is, why it’s vital, and how you can enhance your own health literacy to make more informed and healthier decisions about both your physical and mental health.

What is Health Literacy?

Health literacy is the ability to obtain, process, understand, and act upon health information and services to make informed decisions about your health. It includes reading, listening, analyzing, and evaluating health-related information. Health literacy extends beyond basic reading and writing skills; it’s about comprehending complex medical jargon, navigating the healthcare system, and applying this knowledge to improve one’s health.

Why is Health Literacy Important?

It empowers individuals to take control of their health and wellbeing. It equips people to understand their health conditions, medications, treatment options, and preventive measures. With higher health literacy, individuals can actively participate in healthcare decisions, leading to better health outcomes.

It enhances communication. Effective communication between healthcare providers and patients is essential for quality care. Health literacy enables patients to ask questions, express concerns, and fully understand their diagnosis and treatment plans. 

It reduces health disparities. Low health literacy is often linked to health disparities, as it can prevent marginalized communities from accessing and understanding essential healthcare information. By promoting health literacy, we can work towards reducing these barriers and ensuring that everyone has equal access to healthcare resources.

It saves money. Healthcare costs can be astronomical, and misunderstandings or mistakes due to low health literacy can lead to unnecessary medical expenses. By being more health literate, individuals can make informed choices while potentially avoiding costly health complications.

How do you improve your health literacy?

Ask Questions. Don’t be afraid to ask your healthcare provider questions. Seek clarification about your diagnosis, treatment options, and any unfamiliar terms or concepts. Take notes during your appointments or bring a trusted friend or family member to help you remember and understand the information provided.

Use Reliable Sources. There’s lots of health information on the internet, but not all of it is credible. When looking for health information online, websites of reputable healthcare organizations, government agencies, and medical journals are good places to start. Be cautious of misinformation, pseudoscience, and groups trying to sell you something.

Understand Your Medications. If you’re prescribed medication, make sure you understand its purpose, dosage, potential side effects, and how to take it correctly. Don’t hesitate to consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider for clarification.

Advocate for Yourself. You matter, and no one is going to look out for you like you! So be an active participant in your healthcare decisions. Discuss treatment options, express your preferences, and voice any concerns. Remember that you always have the right to seek a second opinion.

Engage in Preventive Healthcare. Did you know brushing your teeth and walking can be considered preventative health measures? Knowledge of prevention can significantly impact your long-term health. Ask your doctor about or research preventive health measures like vaccinations, screenings, and lifestyle changes to see how you can avoid medical issues before they start. 

Explore more health literacy resources here. 

Health Literacy Month serves as a reminder that understanding and actively participating in our healthcare is a great way to have a healthier life. By improving your health literacy, you can make informed choices, communicate effectively with healthcare providers, and ultimately take control of your well-being. This October, take the first step towards better health literacy and celebrate the empowerment that comes with it.