Quiz: How high is your health literacy?
Health literacy means understanding health information and using it to make smart choices about your care. Take this quick quiz to see what you already know — and pick up some helpful tips along the way
The better you know your health, the easier it is to manage chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease, stay well, and get care when you need it. Health literacy also helps you follow treatment instructions, talk with your providers, understand your medications and know where to go for care. These everyday skills can make a big difference in your overall health.
As you move through this quiz, you’ll see how your knowledge supports safer decisions — and where you might learn something new.
1. What should you do if you accidentally skip a dose of your medication?
A. Don't worry about it; it’s not a big deal if you miss a dose
B. Take the dose as soon as you remember
C. Take 2 doses the next time you’re scheduled to take it
D. Ask your provider
Answer: D. Ask your provider
Every medication works differently. Skipping doses or taking more than prescribed can affect your blood sugar, blood pressure or heart health. Always check with your provider or pharmacist if you miss a dose — they can help you stay safe and on track.
2. How often should you get a checkup with your primary care provider (PCP)?
A. At least once a year
B/ Only when you feel sick
C. Only if you have a specific health concern
D. Only if you are over 65
Answer: A. At least once a year
Regular checkups help your provider track your chronic conditions, adjust medications and catch any new issues early. Bring updates from specialists, recent tests or urgent care visits so your PCP has the full picture.
Your care team adds an extra layer of support to your plan
They can help you schedule medical appointments and connect with community services and resources that make everyday life a little easier. Call them today at 1-833-595-1008 (TTY: 711), 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM local time, Monday through Friday.
3. What is the best way to prevent the flu?
A. Taking antibiotics
B. Getting a flu shot
C. Eating more fruits and vegetables
D. Staying inside all the time
Answer: B. Getting a flu shot
A yearly flu vaccine helps your body fight off the most common flu viruses. This is especially important if you have diabetes or heart problems, because the flu can make chronic conditions worse. Antibiotics won’t help a virus. And while healthy foods are important for keeping your immune system strong, they don’t prevent the flu.
4. True or false: It’s okay to share your prescription medications with others if they have the same symptoms.
Answer: False
Medications are prescribed for your specific health needs. What works for you could be dangerous for someone else, especially if they have different conditions or take other medications.
5. Where should you go for care if you have chest pain?
A. Emergency room (ER)
B. Urgent care center
C. Primary care provider
D. Nowhere; wait for the pain to go away
Answer: A. ER
Chest pain could be a sign of a heart attack. Don’t wait to seek care — call 911 or go to the ER immediately. Other emergency warning signs include trouble breathing, slurred speech or sudden weakness.
6. True or false: You have the right to make health care decisions that work for you.
Answer: True
You can make choices about your care based on what works best for you. Ask questions, speak up and make decisions that fit your personal health needs and lifestyle.
7. Which of the following is considered a chronic disease?
A. Influenza (the flu)
B. Pneumonia
C. A broken arm
D. Diabetes
Answer: D. Diabetes
Chronic diseases include diabetes, chronic heart failure (CHF), cardiac arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease and valvular heart disease. These conditions are ongoing and need regular care to be managed. Acute illnesses, like the flu or pneumonia, usually last a short time and often go away with treatment.
How did you do?
If you got most of the answers right, you have good health literacy. If you missed a few, don’t worry. Check out our glossary of terms for more help and information. Gaining knowledge about your health can help you make more informed decisions in the future.
See Evidence of Coverage for a complete description of plan benefits, exclusions, limitations and conditions of coverage. Plan features and availability may vary by service area.
This material is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Health information programs provide general health information and are not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician or other health care professional. Contact a health care professional with any questions or concerns about specific health care needs. Providers are independent contractors and are not agents of Aetna. Provider participation may change without notice. Aetna is not a provider of health care services and, therefore, cannot guarantee any results or outcomes. The availability of any particular provider cannot be guaranteed and is subject to change. Information is believed to be accurate as of the production date; however, it is subject to change. For more information about Aetna plans, refer to our website.
The benefit(s) mentioned are part of special supplemental benefits for the chronically ill (SSBCI). SSBCI conditions include certain cardiovascular disorders, congestive heart failure, and diabetes. Eligibility is determined by whether you have a chronic condition associated with the benefit(s). Standards and conditions vary for each benefit. Contact us to confirm the specific SSBCI condition requirements for the benefit(s) for this plan and determine your eligibility.
©2026 Aetna Inc.
Y0001_NR_6800358_2026_C
7156650-02-01