Do you have complete confidence in your healthcare provider(s) in New York? No matter if you do or if you do not, you may harbor concerns about becoming a victim of medical errors and other types of medical negligence.
The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality seeks to help calm your concerns. Gain insight on how you, as a patient, can help lower your risk of medical errors.
Prescriptions
When your doctor prescribes a new medication, make sure you can read what (s)he writes on the prescription. It is also a good idea to bring all your medications, including over-the-counter medicines, and supplements to appointments so your doctor can let you know if any could cause a negative reaction. Also, make yourself aware of any side effects that you should expect while taking medication.
Surgery
When you require surgery, try to find a hospital where several patients have had the same procedure done, so the hospital, staff and doctors have a lot of experience handling your procedure and the aftercare. You should also double-check that you, your doctor and your surgeon all agree on the surgery that you need. That way, you do not have to worry as much about a wrong-site surgical error.
Hospital stays
For hospital stays, ask any medical professionals who touch you to thoroughly wash their hands, so you lower your risk of getting an infection. Before heading home, request an in-depth at-home treatment/recovery plan. Specifically, ask about medication, when you can get back to your usual daily life and when/if you need to schedule a follow-up visit.
Take steps to become your main health advocate. Keep the above in mind the next time you go in for a medical check-up or regular appointment.