Simple Medical Information: The Key to Making Better Decisions

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By Romina Wilmot – CEO Founder My Health Fair

Understanding medical information is not just a matter of knowledge: it is a tool for health empowerment and protection.

For many Hispanic families in Massachusetts, medical terms, forms, diagnoses, or instructions in English can generate confusion, fear, and distrust.

This lack of understanding can lead to treatment errors, delays in care, or even the abandonment of essential services.

At My Health Fair (MHF), we believe that health literacy—that is, the ability to understand and use medical information—is the first step to closing the gaps that affect our community.

Understanding the Doctor to Decide Better

When a patient or family member understands what the doctor says, they can make informed decisions and actively participate in their own care.

For example, knowing how to interpret test results, understanding the side effects of a medication, or knowing the steps of a treatment allows them to act with confidence and reduce anxiety.

Conversely, when information is not understood or is misinterpreted, the relationship between the patient and the health system is weakened.

At My Health Fair, we see daily how clear medical information can change lives.

A mother who learns to read an inhaler label, a senior who understands their coverage plan, or a young person who knows their rights as a patient are examples of empowerment that positively impact the entire family.

Health Literacy: A Bridge to Equity

Health literacy is not just about reading, but about understanding and applying what is read.

According to data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 9 out of 10 adults in the United States have difficulty understanding basic medical information.

Furthermore, the National Assessment of Adult Literacy (NAAL) found that only 12% of adults have an adequate level of health literacy.

In the case of the Hispanic population, the challenge is even greater. Nearly 41% report difficulties understanding medical instructions, medication labels, or insurance forms.

These knowledge gaps contribute to inequalities in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of chronic diseases.

Therefore, MHF works to tear down these barriers with accessible, bilingual, and culturally relevant information.

This aims to improve communication between patients, families, and healthcare professionals.

The Role of My Health Fair: Educate, Connect, and Support

At My Health Fair, we understand that alliances are the engine of community change.

That is why we work with organizations, hospitals, universities, and media outlets to bring medical information to Hispanic families for free, reliably, and culturally appropriately.

Collaborations like the ones we maintain with:

• Dana-Farber Cancer Institute,
• Alzheimer’s Association,
• Joslin Diabetes Center,
• UnitedHealthcare,
• Project Bread,
• Ferreras Counseling & Wellness Center,
• Health Connector.

And with leading media outlets such as: El Mundo Boston, Telemundo Nueva Inglaterra, Acceso Total Nueva Inglaterra, DSA9 with Francis Concepción, Univisión Nueva Inglaterra, La Cajita TV, and ¡Órale! con Verónica.

These alliances allow us to amplify the reach of resources, bring information to more homes, and create spaces for dialogue where the community feels heard.

This is about much more than institutional collaborations:

• They are bridges of trust between the health system and families.
• They are voices united by equity, promoting education and prevention in our own language.
• And they are proof that when we work together, we achieve more informed, healthier, and empowered communities.

Tips to Improve Understanding of Medical Information

1. Ask for explanations in your language. Hospitals and clinics in Massachusetts must offer free interpretation services.
2. Take notes during your appointments. Write down symptoms, questions, and the doctor’s instructions.
3. Ask without fear. There are no “silly” questions when it comes to your health.
4. Use reliable resources. Consult official sites like Mass.gov or the thematic booths at MyHealthFair.com.
5. Share the information. Teaching other family members strengthens collective knowledge and builds confidence.

The understanding of medical information is not a luxury; it is a right. At My Health Fair, we will continue to work so that every Hispanic family in Massachusetts can understand, ask, and decide confidently about their health.

This article is part of My Health Fair’s efforts to promote health literacy among the Hispanic community in Massachusetts. Visit www.myhealthfair.com to find resources, interviews, and educational tools.

Romina Wilmot is a leader in community health development and engagement, with extensive experience connecting providers, institutions, and Hispanic communities to drive equitable and innovative healthcare solutions.