Health Literacy Ministry

Health Literacy Ministry (HLM) is a program that provides individualized educational plans to seniors concerning activity, diet, medications and making sure the client has a primary care provider for follow up appointments. We service the undeserved, uninsured and underinsured population. Our volunteers consist of nurses, a peer supporter and a social worker for consults if needed. We try to keep the client enrolled for 30 days which helps decrease readmissions to the hospitals because the seniors are taking control of their health. If needed, they can remain in the program longer. We have telephone nurses that follow up with the clients as needed based on the client's availability. Some clients will send us text messages or emails. HLM has made an impact in the community by decreasing health disparities through education. We provide education for the illiterate and health illiterate individuals. We have decreased emergency room visits and hospitalizations because they have 24 hour access to us for questions or concerns. Providing the equipment for them to monitor their own weight, oxygen level and blood pressure has given them a sense of pride and knowledge. Teaching the client about medications and the reason they are taking them has been very instrumental in the senior becoming more compliant with their medical regimen. Informing them of resources available in the community has enabled the senior to make better decisions and change their lifestyle which increases their quality of life. Our services are free.