We have all been to the hospital or seen a doctor at some point in our life and it is a very scary thought to consider that a doctor could make a mistake. Whether it is in surgery or during diagnostics a medical error can cost you your life and there are some things we can all do to prevent them. A lot of the responsibility however resides with us as patients to participate in our own care in order to make sure our physicians have all the necessary information to assist us.

When asked by a doctor about medications, vitamins or other supplements you might be taking be completely forthcoming and provide all of the information you can. If you have any allergies whatsoever or even had what could have been an allergic reaction mention it to your doctor. Even the most minor detail can influence the doctor’s overall diagnosis and therefore have an impact on your care.

For any and all major surgeries make sure that you have them at a hospital that specializes in this surgery and does it on a regular basis. Each hospital you visit has its own specialty be it cardiology or neurology. Doctors who perform surgeries more often or specialize in a specific type of medicine will practice at a hospital that has a reputation excelling in that area.

When you receive a prescription from a doctor make sure that you can read and understand what it says. If not verify with your doctor and then verify again with your pharmacist to ensure that receive the proper medication. Receiving the wrong medication happens more often than you might think and can result in allergic reactions and even death.

Do not be afraid to question doctors or other health-care workers about the quality of your care. If you are in doubt do not hesitate to question anyone giving you care whether or not they have washed their hands. You are not the only patient in a hospital and disease travels quite easily when your health-care providers do not wash their hands on a regular basis. It might seem rude but being astute and assertive truly can save your life.

Do not hesitate to inquire as to the nature or steps in a procedure if you do not understand something. Going along in silent agreement is not the best strategy when your life and health are at stake! The doctor has every obligation to outline methods and their consequences in providing your care. Your top priority in these situations is to stay informed and speak your mind at all times. Prevention of medical errors could be easy if you know what you are going to do.

A friend or family member can be absolutely indispensable when it comes to providing you with advocacy in a medical setting. An advocate will help you if you should be unable to speak up for yourself due to being unconscious or in too much pain. Make sure they are aware of your feelings about being resuscitated and other measures which may be taken to extend your life in a diminished capacity.