Health Literacy
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Health literacy refers to the ability to understand, interpret, and use basic health information to make informed decisions about your health. This includes:
• Reading and understanding health labels
• Following medical instructions
• Understanding medical terms
• Navigating the healthcare system
• Knowing when and where to seek care
• Communicating effectively with healthcare providers
FIMR Chicago and UIC Healthy Start aim to create a community resource here on the topic of health literacy.​
How to talk to your doctor
Talking to your doctor is sometimes difficult, from asking questions to getting full answers it can all be intimidating. The following are some resources to make connecting with care easier.
Don't Be Shy
Difficult Conversations
When they don’t listen
Patient Bill of Rights
Preparing for your visits
Thinking about your care visits ahead of time will help you get the most of your visit. The following are some worksheets that can help you start thinking about your visit before you leave home
Preparing for your doctor's visit
Women’s Doctor's Worksheet
Prenatal Care Checkups
Baby/Kids Visits
Pre - Pregnancy Care
Monthly Community Topic
(September)
World Heart Day (9/29) (Women and Heart Disease, WISEWOMAN) - World Heart Day is on September 29, 2025, and focuses on raising awareness about cardiovascular disease (CVD), the world's leading cause of death.
Newborn Screening Awareness Month - This month raises awareness about the importance of newborn screening, a vital public health program that tests newborns for serious, treatable medical conditions.
National Folic Acid Awareness Week - National Folic Acid Awareness Week (every September) reminds women who could become pregnant to take 400 mcg of folic acid daily. It’s a key B-vitamin that helps prevent serious birth defects like spina bifida, which can happen early in pregnancy—often before you even know you’re pregnant.
Looking For Support?
Chicago and suburban Cook County residents can access 2-1-1 and get connected to critical health and social services. 2-1-1 is a free, local, 24/7/365 service that connects all Cook County residents to essential health and social service support and information during times of non-emergency crisis and for everyday needs.
We’re Here to Help You Learn
Have a question or need resources on a specific topic? Send us a request, and we’ll share accurate, easy-to-understand materials just for you.
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Just a heads-up: This is just to share resources and info. For any health advice, make sure to check in with your medical team.​