Reducing your Risk of Medical Errors

Ultimately, the responsibility for medical error falls on doctors and other medical employees. When a patient is harmed by a wrong site surgery, medication errors, or other medical mistakes, it is never his or her fault. However, this does not mean that patients are completely powerless to protect themselves. If you or a loved one is receiving medical treatment, there are steps you can take to reduce your chances of being a medical malpractice victim.

Sadly, reasonable precautions are not always enough to keep us safe. If you have been affected by a medical treatment error of any kind, you may be able to receive compensation for related losses. To discuss your case with an experienced Des Moines personal injury lawyers, call LaMarca & Landry, P.C. at 877-327-2600.

Strategies for Avoiding Medical Mistakes

Trusting your care to a medical professional does not mean relinquishing control of your treatment or your future. For your own sake – or the sake of your loved one if you are serving as a healthcare proxy – consider the following tips for patients:

• Stay informed. Making good choices about healthcare requires understanding your diagnosis and treatment options. If your doctor says anything you do not understand, speak up. Do not be afraid to continue asking questions until you understand. You have a right to this information.
• Be assertive. Doctors can be somewhat intimidating, especially when they are convinced about a certain treatment. If you have any doubts about your healthcare, say something.
• Be honest. If your doctor is unaware of your full medical history or current circumstances, he or she may prescribe a treatment that is actually dangerous for you. Do not be too embarrassed to disclose all relevant information; a medical professional should not be judgmental.

Even if you have not been the “perfect” patient, no one deserves to be the victim of a harmful medical mistake. Our Des Moines medical malpractice attorneys can help you determine if you are eligible for repayment of your related expenses.

Contact Us

No one should have to live with medical expenses or disability because of a negligent professional’s errors. To discuss your grounds for compensation with an experienced Des Moines medical malpractice lawyer, contact LaMarca & Landry, P.C. at 877-327-2600.