I tell folks all the time – “the goods sir, is that you don’t have a malpractice case because you will get better.”
Medical negligence cases aren’t fun. You don’t file them unless you are so damaged by a mistake, that you cannot recover.
I would like to prevent all medical malpractice if possible. So I often advocate ways that patients can help themselves, and in turn, help the doctor.
Going to a new doctor?
– bring a list of all medications
– bring a list of all other doctors
– tell the doctor every complaint – not just the ones you are there to see them about
Getting a new Medication?
– ask about side effects?
– ask to see literature on the medication?
– tell your other doctors about the new medication?
– have allergies – tell everyone including your pharmacist what you are allergic too..
Getting surgery?
– find out the risks?
– in patient or outpatient? If outpatient – find out who will be at the office in case of an emergency?
– find out what medications you may require after surgery?
I know your doctors may not have the time to compare your medications etc if they are in your chart – but if you come in with a list of questions, you will get answers..
ALSO – If you have serious health problems, keep notes. How did that medication make you feel? How did you respond? This way you can communicate exactly what happened when you do have 5 minutes of your doctor’s attention.