Being a consumer of anything should come with the understanding of what it is you are consuming. Most people want to know what is in the food they are eating, or they may do some research before spending money on a pricey purchase. Why not be aware of your consumer health decisions? Critical literacy as it relates to health, provides consumers with the knowledge and understanding to make informed decisions about their health and health products. Having a lack of understanding of one’s health insurance coverage can determine whether someone seeks medical care. According to a 2019 poll by Policy Genius, “more than one in four people (27.2%) said uncertainty over their coverage had led them to avoid treatment (Policy Genius, 2019)”. Visiting the doctor when you need to is seemingly a simple decision. As the poll shows us however, many Americans avoid care because they do not understand their insurance coverage plans. The fear of an exorbitant bill is preventing some people from being proactive in their health care needs.
Another important aspect in becoming a conscious health consumer, is the ability to determine what reliable sources of information look like. The concept of using theory to build credibility has proven to be especially necessary in the last few years. We have become inundated with misinformation and false narratives regarding Covid19 which has proven to create many roadblocks on the path to recovery. In the beginning of the pandemic there was a lot of uncertainty surrounding many aspects of the Covid19 virus. When mask wearing became politicized instead of being viewed as a scientifically supported way to prevent the spread of disease, it caused a divide between those who wore masks and those who did not. Theory and evidence-based claims are instrumental in educating the public and gaining their trust so that they are more likely to comply with public health guidelines (Pazzanesse, 2020).
I found the concept of “behaviors of intelligent consumers” to be especially helpful in establishing a baseline for becoming a better health consumer. Often, we are operating with a hegemonic ideology in which we keep doing or buying things even if they harm us or do not serve us. Being knowledgeable about the aspects of your consumer health needs, trusting science, and being proactive in taking care of yourself are some of the ways you can empower yourself and others to live with optimal health.
Since market justice centers on industry interests and has less regulation, practicing critical literacy is crucial in being a smart consumer. The interests of the market may not be in the best interest of the consumer, but more about making a profit off the consumer. These concepts are helpful to me as a consumer as they have given me insight into how I can make appropriate decisions for my own health and that of my family. Having the tools to navigate health insurance plans can save me from uncertainty and avoidance when it comes to making decisions about seeking care. One of my former jobs included explaining insurance benefits to patients. It offered me an inside look at just how many people do not understand what their benefits are or how they work. After my learning this week, I would share this information with people by stressing how important it is for them to become well versed in their benefits. I would encourage them to call their insurance company or visit the website for the ACA to understand what services are covered.
Reference List:
Health Insurance Literacy Survey: Confusion is growing in America. Policygenius. (n.d.). https://www.policygenius.com/blog/health-insurance-literacy-survey-2019/.
Pazzanesse, C. (2020, October 28). Calculating possible fallout of Trump’s face mask remarks. Harvard Gazette. https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2020/10/possible-fallout-from-trumps-dismissal-of-face-masks/.
Consuming Health Matters 