Hidden Hospital Hazards

Ignorance may be bliss in some cases, but it can be downright dangerous when it comes to your healthcare. Many people may die each year due to medical errors. But you can avoid being a statistic by making an effort to get the information you need to fully understand your situation.
Speak Up, Speak Out
Don't trust your doctor to know everything there is to know about you. Many errors happen because of a lack of communication and understanding. Start a strong line of communication between you and each of your healthcare providers by giving every doctor that you work with a complete account of your medical history, including:
Medical conditions
Surgeries or procedures
Medications and supplements
Allergies
Lifestyle information (activity levels, diet, use of alcohol or tobacco) The RealAge test will automatically generate a personalized Smart Patient Profile for you. Print yours today.
Listen Closely
Communication is a two-way street. Medical errors also can occur when people don't follow their doctor's instructions precisely. Listen to your doctors carefully and take notes. If need be, have a friend or companion accompany you so that you can compare notes afterward. Don't hesitate to ask questions or ask your doctor to repeat any information that you didn't understand. Request clearly written directions on how and when to take any suggested or prescribed medications.
Set Up Some Safeguards
If you are having tests or surgical procedures performed, you can safeguard against testing errors and also help ensure the best results with your surgery by following these steps:
Tests
Follow pre- and posttest instructions carefully.
Ask who will interpret the results.
Ask about that person's qualifications.
Seek a second opinion before agreeing to treatment. Surgeries
Seek facilities where the procedure is performed frequently.
Ask about the performing surgeon's qualifications, experience, and success rate.
Discuss the risks and benefits of treatment and nontreatment.
Confirm plans verbally with your surgeon; mark areas to be treated.
Follow pre- and postsurgery instructions carefully.
Appoint someone you trust to make decisions while you recover. Being a vigilant, active participant in your own care will help reduce breakdowns in communication and can dramatically reduce your risk of being hurt by any flaws in the medical system itself. Asking questions, taking notes, and reading all about the latest treatments for your condition can help keep you safe and healthy.More: The most common medical errors involve . . .