How You Can Help Prevent Medical Errors

Medical errors are, shockingly, one of the leading causes of death and injury in the United States. Each year, it’s estimated that between 44,000 and 98,000 people die in hospitals each year as the result of medical errors. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services offers some helpful tips to prevent you from becoming a medical malpractice statistic.

The most important thing you can do to help prevent medical errors is to become involved in your health care. When you are taking medication, make sure your doctor knows about every medicine you are currently taking, as well as allergies you have. Make sure the prescription is written clearly, so the pharmacist does not question what your doctor is prescribing. When picking up your prescription, check with the pharmacist that you are getting the correct drug. Make sure to get instructions on taking the medicine from both the doctor and the pharmacist.

If you require treatment at a hospital, choose a hospital that is known to frequently perform the procedure you are having. Ask all health care workers if they have washed their hands – studies show that if patients ask, the workers wash their hands more often and use more soap. Get clear instructions on what type of treatment you will need when you leave the hospital.

When dealing with doctors, make sure that one person is in charge of your care, and that all healthcare personnel have all important health information about you. If you have a test performed, follow up on the results. Learn more about your medical conditions by asking about it.

If a health care professional has committed an error that led to you suffering injury or a medical problem, you may be able to seek compensation. If you have been the victim of medical malpractice in California, contact the San Fernando Valley medical malpractice attorneys at the Mandell Law Firm at 818-886-6600 today for a free consultation.