Best Ways To Protect Yourself From Doctor Error
Even the most skilled and talented physicians can make errors that can have devastating results, but by taking special precautions, you can avoid physician error. Knowing how to protect yourself and your loved ones from this problem can help keep you and the rest of your family safe.
Assemble a Packet With Your Personal Medical History
Many people will switch physicians over the years, and when they travel from one doctor to the next, their complete medical history may not travel with them—or at least, it may not travel with them quickly.
Bringing your medical history with you will help ensure that your physician is fully informed from the beginning. To keep your file up to date, request a copy of your medical history with each doctor as you leave his or her practice. Keeping this on hand will help ensure that each new physician is fully informed about previous diagnoses and other medical details.
Avoid Miscommunication With Your Physician During Times of Serious Illness
When you're diagnosed with a serious illness, you may find that each doctor's visit is an eye-opening, overwhelming and confusing experience. Your physician may bombard you with information at each new meeting. Asking your doctor the right questions and keeping your physician properly informed can prevent miscommunications and errors.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by the experience of seeing the doctor, you may not be in a mental or emotional state to ask those questions. Bring a spouse, relative or loved one with you at your doctor's appointments to ensure that the lines of communication remain open and functional.
Seek Opinions From Experts When You're Given a Diagnosis
When you're given a diagnosis, one of the best ways to protect yourself is to see a specialist who has extensive experience handling conditions like yours. Once you've been given a diagnosis, talk to your primary care provider about finding a doctor that has applicable expertise. The more expertise a physician has, the easier it will be for him or her to choose the right treatments for you.
In the Event of Physician Error, Contact a Reputable Malpractice Attorney
If you do fall victim to medical malpractice, you still have recourse. Contact an experienced malpractice lawyer. Interview attorneys in your area and choose a lawyer with a reputation for excellence and experience working with clients who diagnoses similar to yours. Your malpractice lawyer will help you get the compensation you need to get back on your feet.
To learn more, visit a website like http://www.ml-law.net.