Being able to find, understand, and use information and services to help you make informed, health-related decisions for you or others is what is defined as personal health literacy. This could include understanding prescription drug instructions, understanding consent forms, or the ability to navigate the healthcare system.
Events, Classes, and Programs
There are a number of programs from local organizations available to guide and assist participants in understanding health and safety options based on their needs. In addition to recommendations from your medical provider, you can find other events and classes at:
- Reading Hospital (Tower Health) which offers classes and support groups from prenatal/parenting to amputee and stroke recovery.
- St. Joseph Medical Center (Penn State Health) similarly offers educational opportunities on various topics including diabetes management and KidFit health clinic.
- Your public library also serves as a valuable resource by offering programs covering a broad range of subjects. Events at all library locations are open to everyone regardless of your home library designation. Periodically check the events and classes tab to see upcoming programs.
Services and Resources
Make sure to take advantage of the different services and resources available in your municipality or county.
In addition to their efforts on substance use prevention and addition recovery, the Council on Chemical Abuse (COCA) provides assistance in medication disposal safety which are free resources to Berks County residents. Medication disposal bags and lock boxes are available upon request while supplies last, and a countywide map of medication drop boxes provides the address and instructions on properly (and safely) disposing expired and left over medication.
The Berks County Area Agency on Aging supports and funds a number of programs and services to many older adults throughout Berks County. They provide guidance to accessing various senior services including housing and transportation.
Don't forget about the shared countywide collection of materials that provide freely accessible resources to anyone with a Berks County Public Libraries card. The catalog includes guides and books related to various health topics and the Accessibility & Supportive Learning collection.