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
Baby/Kids Visits
Pre - Pregnancy Care
Prenatal Care Checkups
Monthly Community Topic
(OCT)
SIDS/SUID/Safe Sleep Awareness
Placing babies on their backs, in their own crib, with no loose bedding is the safest sleep environment. Room‑sharing without bed‑sharing further reduces the risk of SIDS. Families can learn more through the Safe to Sleep® campaign toolkit at safetosleep.nichd.nih.gov/resources/toolkit.
Health Literacy Month
Understanding health information helps families make safer choices. Asking questions and using plain language strengthens communication and improves care. Please review this page for resources around health literacy.
National Depression Screening Day (Oct 6)
Depression during and after pregnancy is common and treatable. Early screening helps families support moms and connect them to care. The Illinois MOMS Line is a free, confidential, 24/7/365 helpline providing emotional support and mental health resources for pregnant and postpartum individuals, families, and healthcare providers in Illinois
Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness (Oct 5)
One in four pregnancies ends in loss, and families are not alone. Awareness reduces stigma and builds supportive communities. Additional resources can be found through Share Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support at https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancyandinfantlossmonth.
National Health Education Week
This week promotes access to clear, accurate, and easy‑to‑understand health information. When families have reliable knowledge, they’re empowered to make healthier choices.
Prematurity Awareness Month
Prematurity is a leading cause of infant mortality. Prenatal care and healthy habits during pregnancy can reduce risks and improve outcomes. The March of Dimes provides evidence‑based guidance at marchofdimes.org/find-support/topics/pregnancy/premature-birth.
National Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Abuse can begin or worsen during pregnancy, and support is available. Hotlines, shelters, and advocacy programs help keep families safe. The National Child Traumatic Stress Network offers resources at nctsn.org/resources/public-awareness/national-domestic-violence-awareness-month.
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.