“The More You Know, The More You Grow”
by Catherine Ernotte
I am sure that the phrase “The More You Know, The More You Grow” is familiar to many of you. I know that my kids were given this as a mantra in elementary school. A Google search revealed several variations on this theme but no one particular author is named as a primary source. “The more you know, the more you grow” is also an important saying to apply regarding achieving health literacy.
One thing is certain, we continue to learn from others. In recognition of NATIONAL HEALTH EDUCATION WEEK let’s raise awareness and appreciation for the many Health Educational Specialists that strive daily to improve the health status of people, communities, and nations. These specialists affect us in so many ways. Through their educational efforts and the improvement of individual healthcare practices, quality of life is improved with data showing a reduction in the number of premature deaths and disabilities.
“The More You Know, The More You Grow” efforts educate us about illness prevention has a strong impact on decreasing the financial burden from the cost of medical treatments. Society for Public Health Education reports that the chronic conditions of diabetes, Crohn’s disease, and cancer make up approximately 75% of all the money spent in the US on health care each year. Health Educational Specialists increase knowledge, change attitudes, improve skills, and motivate patients to maintain health and decrease harmful behaviors.
The National Commission for Health Education Credentialing (nchec.org) states that Health Educational Specialist, in addition to teaching us daily, are catalysts for advocacy, healthy equity, school and environmental health, gun violence reduction, and public policy changes that will positively impact the overall community health.
Health Educational Specialists are committed to our well-being but go largely unrecognized for their positive impact on health and health professionals. We can honor this dedicated branch of health care by participating in the promotion of good health… starting with our own. And then we need to champion health equity and access for everyone, especially the most marginalized among us, the vulnerable and neglected. And remember, you can be an advocate for policy change by making your voice and your vote count.
“The More You Know, The More You Grow.” A special thanks to all of our Health Care Specialists.
Now let’s pass on that knowledge!
Share your Story with us…
Real stories are a powerful way for families to understand the benefits of foster care and being adoptive parents. Whether you are a birth parent, adoptive parent or adoptee, adoption changes you. Each time you share your story with someone, you will be reminded how all the pieces of your adoption or foster care journey came together.