Literacy - Williamsburg, HEAL, Literacy for Life

The HEAL Program Literacy for Life provides an 8-week course for both ABE and ESOL adults that increases their knowledge of current healthcare topics, medical terminology, standard processes and practices. Depending on the learning level of the student, HEAL courses are taught at three different levels (Beginner, Intermediate, or Advanced). Students learn to: Describe symptoms to a doctor Read and understand medication instruction Know when to use Urgent Care instead of Emergency Room Understand and fill out medical forms Ask medical staff questions to understand what the diagnosis, prescription and next steps are Identify lifestyle changes to improve health Literacy for Life also provides HEAL training to medical staff that raises awareness about the issue of low health literacy and gives practical tools and strategies for working with patients that can be used immediately. The presentation is interactive, engaging, and packed with information. Key topics include: Identifying low literate patients Communicating clearly and effectively Creating easy-to-read materials Checking for comprehension Being culturally sensitive