Six Steps New York Patients Can Take to Combat Medical Negligence
Medical negligence is a major concern for patients in New York City, the Bronx, Brooklyn and surrounding areas. 
A New York medical malpractice lawyer recognizes medical negligence has become the third-leading cause of death in the United States and results in around 210,000 fatalities every single year. In the United Kingdom, medical negligence has also become a major issue, with one-fifth of the National Health Service budget put aside to pay damages in negligence claims.
Patients should be able to count on their doctors to provide acceptable care. But there are problems with the healthcare system that span the globe and persist in all different types of medical-delivery systems.
In the event that medical negligence results in injury, patients can pursue compensation. But of course, prevention is always preferable, where it’s possible. While patients may consider health care solely the realm of their doctor (and it’s true that is often where the ultimate responsibility lies), the Huffington Post recently published six steps people can take to try to protect themselves from medical error.
Many patients report advocating for their own health can be empowering – and potentially life-saving.
Six Steps to Combat Medical Negligence
The six recommended steps to help you avoid medical negligence include the following:
- Be your own advocate. You are your best protector when dealing with doctors. Listen to your gut feelings, and ask questions about any treatment you are receiving. If hospital staff come into your room, ask them what they are doing and ask about any medication that is being administered. You have the right to know what is happening to your body and you may be able to speak up and stop a mistake from being made before it happens.
- Have someone you trust help you. You should bring someone with you when you go to medical appointments or consultations for specialized treatment so you have a second set of eyes and ears. If you become overwhelmed with stress or can’t absorb all of the information you are being given, you’ll have someone else who was there with you and who can also provide feedback and advice.
- Do research when possible. You can look into different treatment options that are available before you go to see a doctor and come prepared with a list of potential questions.
- Get a second opinion if possible. You should especially consider getting a second opinion before undergoing any major procedures or if you are not 100 percent confident in a diagnosis that you have been given.
- Create a living will and a power of attorney. This will ensure that it is clear who should make decisions on your behalf when you cannot speak for yourself.
- Eat well and get plenty of exercise. By taking care of yourself, you minimize the amount of time you end up spending with a doctor. This is the best way to reduce the risks of a medical mistake.
By following these tips, you can hopefully protect yourself and reduce the chances of becoming a malpractice victim.
For more information about how a medical malpractice attorney in New York can help you with your medical malpractice case, contact Jonathan C. Reiter Law Firm, PLLC. Call 212-736-0979 to schedule a free consultation today.
