Navigating health information can feel overwhelming. From internet searches to complex medical terms, it’s not always easy to know what applies to you. Health literacy is the ability to find, understand and use health information to make informed choices. Improving health literacy helps you recognize your risks and act early to protect your health.
People with higher health literacy are better at managing chronic conditions, following treatment plans and preventing illness. Improving health literacy means fewer preventable diseases and stronger families in our community.
Steps to Navigate Your Health Risks:
- Know your personal risk factors.
- Age, family history, lifestyle and environment all play a role.
- Example: smoking increases risk of lung disease, while a family history of diabetes may raise your personal risk.
- Prepare for medical visits.
- Write down your top three questions before seeing your provider. Don’t be afraid to ask for plain language explanations.
- Use trusted sources especially those that use science-backed research.
- For example: Tulsa Health Department, CDC, Oklahoma State Department of Health. Be cautious of social media or sites that spread misinformation.
- Understand prevention basics.
- Screenings, vaccines, exercise and diet are all ways to reduce your risks. Knowing which apply to you is key.
- Build a support system.
- Share information with family, join community health events and ask questions. You don’t have to navigate health decisions alone.
Common Missteps in Health Literacy:
- Believing that all online information is accurate.
- Avoiding care because the medical terms feel intimidating.
- Not asking questions out of fear of “bothering” the doctor.
Health literacy isn’t just an individual responsibility, it’s a shared one. While we don’t expect every person to have formal training or education in health, we do believe everyone deserves access to clear, understandable information that empowers them to make informed decisions about their well-being.
That’s where we come in. At the Tulsa Health Department, we recognize the critical role that health systems and organizations play in improving health literacy. Through clear communication, simplified materials and ongoing staff training, healthcare systems can become easier to understand and navigate especially for those who may face barriers due to language, education or access.
Our dedicated team works every day to ensure that the information we provide is not only accurate, but also accessible to the diverse communities we serve. Whether it’s through one-on-one conversations, printed materials offered in multiple languages or online resources, we strive to connect our clients with trusted, understandable health information and services.
Effective health literacy is about gaining accurate knowledge to act responsibly and with confidence. The more you understand your health risks, the more you can take charge of your well-being. Because when people understand their health, they’re better equipped to take charge of it and that leads to healthier individuals, families and communities.