For the public

Health literacy is about finding, understanding and using information to promote and maintain good health.

eLearning course for the public

Health literacy helps you:

Understand health information
Prepare for appointments
Ask questions with confidence
Understand medicines and instructions
Find reliable health information online
Make informed decisions about your health

What can I do?

Tip 1:

Be prepared

Prepare for your appointment

Write down your questions before your appointment.
Bring important information, such as your medicines and appointment details.
Have your GP and emergency contact details handy.
Bring someone with you if you would like support.
Take notes or ask for information in writing.

Tip 2:

Ask questions

Taken from Ask Me 3 Campaign

Tip 3

Check your understanding

Before you leave the appointment

I know what I need to do next
I know when to come back
I know who to contact if I have questions
I have my medication or instructions written down

Remember: It's okay to ask questions and check that you understand.

Continue your health literacy journey

Take the health literacy quiz

We all make decisions about our health every day. This can involve understanding information, asking questions, following instructions, or finding the support we need.

Our short health literacy quiz can help you learn more about health literacy and discover practical tips for making health information easier to understand and use.

The quiz has four questions and takes just a few minutes to complete.

Start the health literacy quiz

Looking for support?

Health literacy is about more than health information. The skills we use to understand forms, instructions, appointments, medicines, and health information are skills we use in everyday life.

Free and confidential support is available if you would like help with reading, writing, maths, or digital skills.

Regional Literacy Coordinators can help connect you with the right literacy supports.

Contact your local Regional Literacy Coordinator