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
(April)
Black Maternal Health Week
Black women are more likely to face serious complications during pregnancy and childbirth—something that shouldn’t be happening. Raising awareness and pushing for better, more respectful care can make a real difference for moms and families. Learn more or get involved with Black Mamas Matter Alliance.
National Minority Health Month
This month is all about shining a light on health gaps in minority communities and finding ways to close them. Connecting families to preventive care and local resources can go a long way toward healthier lives.
National Public Health Week
Small things,like washing your hands, staying up to date on vaccines, and making healthy choices, add up. Strong communities happen when we also look at the bigger picture, like access to housing, education, and healthcare. See what’s happening through American Public Health Association.
World Immunization Week
Vaccines are one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect against serious diseases. Keeping up with immunizations helps protect not just individuals, but whole communities, especially kids.
National Infant Immunization Week
Babies rely on vaccines early on to build protection when they need it most. Following the schedule from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention helps keep them safe from preventable illnesses.
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.
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.