For any Patient, we seek our doctor’s advice and value his or her input as a direct reflection of our health. Many people have seen the same doctor for years entrusting them with their lives, but how often have doctors been wrong and the result is deadly?

Negligence and medical malpractice, unfortunately, is something that happens to patients. It refers to the legal offense of negligence where a patient is either injured or suffers from a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or any other medical Healthcare professional. Researchers report that medical errors are now the third leading cause of death in the United States, according to The Washington Post.  So, what can be done to avoid unfortunate situations such as theses?

Educate Yourself

Before taking any healthcare professional’s word of advice, be sure to do your own homework by researching newly prescribed medication. For instance, many cancer patients resulted to Taxotere, a cancer treatment drug that had similar side effects of chemotherapy; however, after treatment the hair loss was permanent. Unfortunately, these patients are now being faced with this permanent results and looking to sue the manufacturing company as compromise.

This is but a small example of the number of drugs that have either been recalled or posed long term damage to patients, even death.

Communicate

Several patients have known their doctors for years. However, this doesn’t always mean they communicate effectively. Without communicating your health concerns and questions, the argument can be made that you aren’t getting the most effective care. Whether it’s a regular checkup, surgery, or treatment for any condition; it is the duty of the patient to communicate clearly what they’re experiencing to avoid any unfavorable situation that could result in a misdiagnosis by their healthcare professional.

Be clear, upfront, and honest about what you’re going through as a patient. Your doctors are healthcare professionals and have an obligation to ensure that you receive the best treatment options available.

Act

Many patients have experienced the alarming result of neglect while under the supervision of a doctor or hospital staff. If you or someone you know has been a victim of neglect, it is important that you consult a legal profession, especially if you were harmed or became ill because of the neglect. As a patient, you have the right to fight for your health and in the event, you weren’t provided the medical attention necessary, the ending could be fatal.

Doctors are faced with a great deal of patients on an everyday basis. As a patient, it’s important to do your part to stay educated on any prescription drug being recommended and other treatment options, communicating effectively with doctors and healthcare staff, and understanding the obligation your doctor has to you. Ensure that you’ve done your part so that if there is any mishap you can ensure your health and wellbeing is taken care of.

The post The Role of a Patient appeared first on Personal Injury Lawyers & Car Accident Attorneys.