Protecting Yourself From Medical Errors

The unfortunate reality is that medical errors are not rare and thousands of Americans are injured each year by some type of medical error or oversight.  While you cannot protect yourself from every medical error, the following are some tips that will help protect you and your family from a medical error.

1. Communication: Many medical errors result from improper or inadequate communication. As a patient, always communicate fully with your health care providers. Inform them of all medications you take as well as any over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, supplements or other treatments.  Inform them of all of your symptoms and problems.  Ask questions about any proposed tests or treatments. Do not assume the doctor knows your records or medical history and make them aware of anything you feel is important.
2. Know Your Medications: Medication errors are the most common type of medical error and are the most easily prevented.  Know your medications (trade name and generic names), your dosages, any conditions or stipulations regarding the medication being prescribed and the reason for each medication that you are given. Make sure all treating health care providers are aware of all of your medications at all times. Keep a list of all of your medications and dosages and provide the list to each new physician or provider. If you have any questions about your medications or dosages, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Read all the information related to your medications to fully understand the risks, side effects and interactions.
3. Ask Questions: Many people are hesitant to ask a health care provider questions, but do not assume that everyone has read your chart or knows your history. If you do not understand a treatment, ask for more information.  If you are still uncertain, get a second opinion.
4. Do Your Homework: If you are referred to a new physician, find out as much as you can about your new doctor.  The Virginia Board of Medicine maintains a website “vahealthprovider.com” that will give you considerable information regarding any physician practicing in Virginia.  If you have any questions about your physician’s qualifications, do not hesitate to ask.  Again, if you are uncomfortable with a physician or truly question their treatment, talk to your family physician or another physician you trust. Also, never hesitate to get a second opinion.  
5. Cleanliness: One of the leading causes of medical complications and illness, especially in hospitals, are hospital acquired infections such as staph. Make sure any physician or technician treating you washes their hands before touching you. Likewise, if you question the cleanliness of any equipment, your room, surroundings or otherwise, bring it to the attention of your physician, nurse and/or other technician. If your requests are ignored, ask to speak with the hospital administrator.
6. Surgery: If a physician recommends surgery, you have the right to have your question answered regarding the proposed surgery. Know the alternatives to surgery, if any, and know exactly what is going to be done.  The surgeon will provide you with a consent and make certain that you read the consent and have the surgeon answer any questions you may have about risks or complications. Surgery typically has some risk of significant complications, and if you have any questions or concerned, get more information or a second opinion.