Being a Health Literate Consumer Chapter 2 Lesson 3 Being a Health Literate Consumer

Do Now What are some types of products and services people use to maintain or improve their health?

Are You A Smart Buyer? Health Consumer-someone who purchases or uses health products or services Advertising-a written or spoken media message designed to interest consumers in purchasing a product or service. Pg. 47 Figure 2.11

What advertising technique is this? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ycrbaXipHw

Evaluating Products Product Labels Product labels carry the products name, its intended use, directions, warnings, manufacturer’s information , and the amount in the container

Comparison Shopping Judging the benefits of different products by comparing several factors, such as quality, features, and cost. Look at Cost and Quality Features Warranty Safety Recommendations Cost and Quality-generic products may work the same as brand name-products. Compare the quality of lower cost items that meet your needs but at less cost Features-figure out which product features are most important to you so that you don’t have to waste money on features you don’t want Warranty- a company's or store’s written agreement to repair a product or refund your money if the product doesn't function properly. Ask about warranty's on expensive products Safety-Make sure product has been tested for safety by well known organization. Ex. Cars 5 star governmental crash test rating Recommendations-listen to the opinions of people you trust. Ex. better business bureau

Generic vs. Name Brand $3.98 $6.97

Evaluating Information and Services Does this information come from a valid source? Does the service come from a respected provider? If the source is a Web site, who pays for the site? Is it a reputable organization? What is the purpose of the site?

Managing Consumer Problems Ch. 2 Lesson 4 pg.50 Managing Consumer Problems

Resolving Consumer Problems Understand return policy before making a purchase Have a copy of the warranty Save your receipt Read all instructions before use

Organizations Better Business Bureau Consumer advocates- people whose sole purpose is to take on regional, national, and even international consumer issues. Local ,State, and federal government agencies (i.e. FDA) Not satisfied? BBB-handles complaints about local merchants. Food and Drug administration-Most concerned with consumer health issues. They are responsible for ensuring medicines are safe, effective, and properly labeled.

Malpractice Failure by a health professional to meet accepted standards http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlE0x4Z-2gA

Health Fraud The sale of worthless products or services that claim to prevent disease or cure other health problems Also known as Quackery http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ogsm2rRgrWk Look out for claims like Secret Formula Miracle cure Overnight results All natural Hurry this offer expires soon

Protection From Health Fraud Check out claims with doctor or other health professional Talk to family or friends Check with BBB Check with professional health organizations American heart association will be familiar with health frauds related to heart disease treatment