What Can You Do to Help Prevent Medical Errors?

Medical mistakes are the third leading cause of death in the United States today. That’s why the St. Louis medical malpractice lawyers at Cofman Townsley Injury Lawyers would like to help make you aware of some of the greatest risks patients face and what can be done to help prevent becoming the victim of a medical error.

A majority of medical mistakes are simply the result of poor patient management. In fact, a report from alternet.org says these errors accounted for roughly 58 percent of all adverse events examined in a study conducted by the Harvard Medical School. Some of the most common mistakes were surgical complications, adverse drug reactions, and infections. Additionally, one percent of all medical mistakes are the result of doctor and hospital negligence.

Many citizens wonder what they can do to reduce the odds of injury caused by a medical mistake. Our legal staff suggests:

  • Asking questions- It’s vital that you are educated about the treatments and medications you are receiving. Never hesitate to ask your physician about any aspect of your care.
  • Reporting issues- If you suspect you or a loved one has suffered a medical error, it’s important that you make the proper authorities aware of the issue as soon as possible.
  • Seeking Assistance- Don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion regarding treatment or diagnosis. If you believe you’ve been the victim of a medical error, speaking with an attorney can help clarify your legal rights.

We hope these tips help keep you and your loved ones healthy and safe!