How Can You Find a Safe Hospital?

Many people think of a hospital as the haven where they can find relief from their medical problems. However, studies indicate that hospitals may not be as safe as some individuals assume them to be. Medical malpractice accounts for thousands of deaths each year. If you require medical treatment, the following tips can help ensure that you leave your hospital healthier than when you enter it. 

Research Your Options

Consumer Reports recently chronicled the reality of hospital care in the United States. The publication discussed several independent studies that researched the number of deaths caused by medical mistakes. Though they vary in number, the research estimates that thousands of people die due to oversights and errors made by medical staff. However, the number of medical malpractice-related fatalities varies according to the capabilities of different hospitals. For instance, reputable hospitals tend to experience fewer medical mistakes. Therefore, finding a well-ranked facility can potentially save your life.

Discuss Your Treatment

Once you choose a hospital, make sure you talk to each member of your medical team about your treatment. Some medical mistakes can be made through communication errors between doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals. Other mistakes occur simply because a medical expert fails to carry out the duties expected of him. When you engage your medical team about your treatment, make sure they are knowledgeable and consistent about your care needs.

Utilize Your Loved Ones

Depending on the nature of your condition, you may have to interact with dozens of different medical professionals, each of whom may have information or instructions for you. To ensure that they do not provide conflicting information about your condition, or that you misunderstand their instructions, have a trusted friend or family member with you. Having a person at your side can help make sure you receive the best care available.

Has a recent hospitalization left you with a serious medical problem? If so, call Pegalis & Erickson of Long Island at (516) 684-2900 for an initial consultation. We can see to it that you receive the legal representation you require.