Medical malpractice occurs when a health care provider causes harm to a patient due to negligence or omission. Though fault may lie with the medical professional, as a patient, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of any misunderstanding or complications that lead to damages. Here are a few ways to avoid common errors.

How Can I Do My Part to Avoid Medical Malpractice?

1. Make Doctors Aware of Current Conditions & Medications

There’s always a risk of new prescriptions having adverse effects, so let your doctor know of any medications you’re taking, as well as any supplements. Consider bringing all these medications along in a bag to avoid confusion, and make a list of any allergies you’re aware of as well. Lastly, before you leave, make sure you can read the prescription — if you can’t, it might lead to a miscommunication with the pharmacist.

2. Take Precautions Before Surgery

Wrong-site surgeries are a common form of medical malpractice; fortunately, it’s customary for surgeons to mark the body part they’re to operate on. Double-check that it’s right, and speak with your surgeon to make sure everyone’s on the same page. Also, try to do some research online to find the best hospital in which to get the surgery. For example, you’ll want to visit a facility with operating rooms dedicated to your type of surgery. 

3. Get a Second Opinion

Different medical professionals may come to different conclusions with the same set of facts. With that in mind, it may not surprise you to learn that 88% of patients who seek a second opinion before treatment are given a new or slightly altered diagnosis. This is especially important if you’re diagnosed with a serious condition, such as cancer. Other reasons to seek a second opinion include symptoms continuing after treatment and getting diagnosed with a rare disease.

If you’ve experienced harm due to medical malpractice, call Neimark & Neimark. Based in New City, NY, they’ve been helping clients throughout Rockland & Orange counties get the compensation they deserve. These lawyers also help with auto accident, slip and fall, and product liability suits, among other personal injury cases. Call (888) 725-7424 at any hour of the day to set up a consultation, and visit them online to learn more about their practice areas.