MEDICAL ERRORS

What are Medical Errors?

Medical errors are a major problem within our healthcare system. Exact figures are difficult to determine, but researchers believe that between 45,000 and 98,000 fatalities occur every year due to medical workers' mistakes. Even more patients survive these incidents, but suffer painful and perhaps even debilitating injuries.

Of course, the responsibility for addressing this issue falls primarily on health professionals. However, it is not fair or accurate to say that the matter is completely out of patients' hands. When you seek help for a medical problem, it is important to take whatever steps you can to communicate clearly and efficiently with your doctor. Many believe that communication errors - whether they are between professionals, or between patients and doctors - are a major contributing factor to medical mistakes.

Tips for Patients to help avoid Medical Errors

Increasing communication with your healthcare providers does not have to be overly difficult or complicated. Some simple steps you can take include:

• Prepare for appointments. Once you are in the office, it can be difficult to recall all of the issues and questions that have arisen since your last meeting. Instead, write these problems down as they occur, preferably on one piece of paper or in one notebook. Review your notes while waiting for your doctor so you can clearly discuss your situation.
• Do not withhold information. Discussing private matters can be embarrassing for many people, but no one can help you if they do not know what is going on. Remember that your doctors are experienced professionals; they should not be easily surprised.
• Do not be afraid to ask questions. Many people are afraid of condescended to, or just rushed out of the room. Even if these problems occur, you have the right to complete information about your diagnosis and treatment. Have your healthcare providers go over the facts until you are confident that you understand them.
• Ask for help if you need it. Sometimes patients are concerned about appearing weak or vulnerable, or simply do not want to be a "bother." If you are suffering from any pain or discomfort, medical workers are there to assist you as well as they can. Do not be too proud or bashful to seek help.
• Take notes. Having easy reference to your previous diagnosis, prescriptions, and other medical issues can help you efficiently clear up any questions you may have. It can also help you recognize and point out errors like incorrectly filled prescriptions.

Advocating for yourself is not always easy. Unfortunately, medical workers are not always as polite or concerned as they should be. However, this is all the more reason for you to research your rights and work to protect them.

By: Joseph Devine

To learn more about patients' rights, contact Iowa medical malpractice lawyers LaMarca & Landry, P.C.