This Health Literacy month gives us a chance to highlight an often-underrepresented portion of healthcare, your understanding of you! Health literacy boils down to your personal understanding of medical information. Keeping in mind how you interpret and apply the information given to you by health professionals, can be vital to the health of you and those around you. So, since we all know going to the doctor’s office can be overwhelming at times, here are some tips to help you better understand your medical information!
Tips for Improving your Health Literacy
We understand that a lot of this information can be difficult to internalize. Because of this, here are some tips and resources you can look to for a better understanding of your health.
Talk to your Primary Physician
Doctor fear is unfortunately somewhat common, and it can sometimes feel intimidating to ask for more clarification in the office. But try to remember that your physician only wants you in the best condition possible and will answer your questions to the best of their ability.
Pharmacist Assistance
One of the most difficult, and most important areas lacking in health literacy, is an understanding of the medications you are taking. For anyone looking for valuable information about how your health relates to your medication, we advise you get in touch with a pharmacist. Whether this be through Tria Health’s one-on-one pharmacist appointments, or a professional at your local pharmacy, consider pharmacists when it comes to your medication-related questions.
Online Resources
For anyone looking to online resources for a better understanding of their health, or terminology that could come in handy, please go here for more information: https://health.gov/our-work/national-health-initiatives/health-literacy/resources
Why is Health Literacy Important
Health Literacy is a key role in almost any aspect of healthcare. Whether it be your yearly physical or a meeting with a specialist, your understanding of what the doctor is telling you makes the difference in your treatment. Communication errors where someone doesn’t know what they should be asking, or not asking for clarification to save time, are both commonly made mistakes when it comes to effective health literacy. Taking the steps to efficiently communicate when you need more clarification, as well as bridging the gap between a doctor’s understanding and your own, can be all the difference bettering your health.
How Tria Can Help
Trying to grasp different medical terms can be frustrating when you just want a simple explanation of what you need to know. Tria Health understands that and is here to help. Tria provides one-on-one meetings with pharmacists who act as a second set of eyes on your health, helping guide you through any areas in which you have questions or concerns. Tria is a benefit available through select healthcare plans. If you do have access to Tria’s services, make sure to take advantage, and meet with a professional who can explain your health in a clear, and straightforward manner.
Questions?
For any questions related to your health, medications, or chronic condition(s), you can reach out to the Tria Health Desk at 913-322-8456.
Resources