Answers to Common Health Literacy Questions

Premier Physician Network providers answer frequently asked questions about health literacy.

Why is good communication important between patients and their providers?

Medical providers and patients have to work together as a team to make the best possible choices when it comes to health care.

By having good communication between you and your physician, you keep your physician informed so he or she can make good care choices for you, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Being honest about your symptoms and having an open dialogue about your opinions or care choices is also important to be able to help your doctor find the right diagnosis, treatment, and care plan for your specific needs, according to the NIH.

Doctors and other medical providers try their best to keep you in the loop about your medical needs, but if there is something you don’t understand or want more information on, it’s important to ask questions – even if you feel shy or embarrassed, according to the NIH.

Your doctor and other members of your medical care team want you to feel confident and comfortable being an advocate for your health care.

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Source: Joseph Allen, MD, Family Medicine of Vandalia; Christopher Aviles, MD, Beavercreek Family Physicians; Michael Dulan, MD, Dulan and Moore Dulan Family Wellness Center; Aleda Johnson, MD, Liberty Family Medicine; Josh Ordway, MD, Franklin Family Practice; Joseph Leithold, MD, Woodcroft Family Practice; Anne Nestor, MD, Trenton Family Medicine; Melinda Ruff, MD, Centerville Family Medicine; Anessa Alappatt, MD, Fairborn Medical Center; Jennifer Romaker, NP-C, Fairfield Road Physician Offices