Tips to Avoid Becoming a Medical Malpractice Victim

By Staff Writer

Medical malpractice, which is also known as medical negligence, is more common than many of us may realize.  Examiner.com reported on a study that estimates nearly 98,000 people in the United States die each year due to some sort of preventable medical error.

Aren’t we supposed to feel safe when going to the hospital?  There are a variety of tips to guide you in not becoming one of the victims of the tragedy of medical malpractice.

• KNOW your doctor – Make sure your doctor has the credentials and is certified in his field. Get opinions from people that are his patients or former patients.  Do you feel comfortable with him or her?  Is he attentive and caring?
• Get more than one opinion – before someone says you need major surgery, see another doctor that may have another option. Don’t just go on one doctor’s opinion.
• Speak up and ask questions – It is your body and you have the right to know and understand what is being discussed about you and your health. Do not be intimidated by a doctor.  Ask questions!
• Bring someone with you – Try not to do this alone! Bring someone to support you that may be able to think of a question that you have not thought about.  Have another set of listening ears with you!
• Know yourself and your health history – Be knowledgeable and have all documentation of your health history. Listen closely and if you are uncomfortable with a recommendation or something said, speak up about it.  Possibly the doctor overlooked something about your health history.

This is the tip of the iceberg in ways that you can try and be as proactive as possible and avoid becoming the next medical malpractice victim. For more information regarding medical malpractice, read our article in our knowledge center.

If you believe you have been a victim of medical malpractice or would simply like more information, call one of our highly qualified Tennessee medical malpractice attorneys at Gilreath and Associates today for a free consultation.

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