Today’s healthcare system is complex and sometimes overwhelming. Many people feel confused and frustrated by hard-to-understand health insurance information.
The Healthcare Literacy Council is addressing this challenge by leading a public education campaign to help you make better use of your healthcare, avoid unnecessary emergency room visits and get the care you need—more affordably and effectively.
Did You Know?
1 in 4 people in Far East Contra Costa County went to the emergency room
last year,
but many didn't have a life-threatening emergency
1 in 5 ambulance calls
in the county are made for non-life-threatening health issues
90 minutes spent per ambulance assistance call
is the average time the vehicle and crew are in use for an emergency call
Emergency and Urgent Care
in Far East Contra Costa County
About the Healthcare Literacy Council
The Healthcare Literacy Council of Contra Costa County is uniting local leaders and organizations to help the community, particularly those with Medicare and Medi-Cal, use their healthcare with confidence. The Council’s education program supports people in making informed decisions that protect both their health and their finances.
Formed by County Supervisor Diane Burgis in partnership with Kaiser Permanente, Contra Costa Health and the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, the Council is focused on empowering people to make informed decisions about their care. The education campaign focuses on Far East Contra Costa County for the pilot phase and will expand countywide in the coming years.
Council Vision and Goals
Healthcare literacy means being able to find, understand and use health information and services.
The Council knows that better health starts with strong healthcare literacy and is committed to improving community health through education. It envisions a healthier, more informed community where everyone, no matter their age, income or background, can get and use the care they need.
Goals:
-
Improve health outcomes for people in Far East Contra Costa County
-
Reduce emergency room usage in Far East Contra Costa County
-
Build a sustainable and scalable healthcare literacy model for broader adoption
Council Members
