When you or a loved one go to the doctor, the last thing you should have to worry about is being harmed due to the careless or negligent actions of a medical professional. However, medical mistakes do occur on a regular basis. At Soloff & Zervanos, P.C., we are here to help victims hold careless healthcare professionals responsible for their actions. Today, our Philadelphia medical malpractice attorneys want to discuss steps you can take to prevent a medical error from happening.
Take control of your medical situation
One of the best ways to prevent medical errors from occurring is for the patient to become an active participant in their health care team. This does not mean you have to become a doctor or a nurse. This just means that you are taking preventative steps to ensure quality health care.
Keep your health care team informed: Always keep your doctors informed of your medications, allergies, in past medical history. Let your doctor know if any changes to your condition or about adverse reactions to treatments and medications.
Make sure you understand every procedure hand the risks associated with them: If you are going to undergo any medical procedure, make sure the doctor describes the risks and benefits in terms that you understand. If there is something you do not quite understand, do not be afraid to ask questions. Do not be afraid to say “no” to a procedure you are not comfortable with.
Talk to your pharmacist: Some of the most common medical errors revolve around medications. Talk to your pharmacist about any medication you were prescribed that you are unsure about. Make sure you understand when and how to take the medication and that you are taking the correct dosage as prescribed by your doctor.
Be vigilant in the hospital: If you or a loved one are hospitalized, be sure that all health care workers who have contact with you wash their hands. Before any procedures, make sure that you, your doctor, and your surgeon are all in agreement and understand what procedures will be done. Before you are discharged from the hospital, make sure you completely understand the treatment plan prescribed by your doctor.
How often do these mistakes occur?
Medical mistakes happen often. Researchers at Johns Hopkins have said that medical errors chill as many as 250,000 people each year in the United States. This is an alarming number, but it only shows part of the overall picture. Millions of other people survive medical mistakes but are left dealing with the consequences.
It is time to secure the compensation you are entitled to
If you or somebody you love has been injured due to the carelessness or negligence of a medical professional, seek legal assistance immediately. At Soloff & Zervanos, P.C., we are ready to help you secure the compensation you are entitled to. This can include:
Compensation for any medical expenses caused by the mistake
Coverage of lost income and benefits if you cannot work
Loss of enjoyment of life damages
Pain and suffering damages
Punitive damages against the healthcare provider/agency responsible
