How can you help avoid being the victim of medical malpractice?

Friday April 8, 2016

As patients, many people feel like they’re helpless to prevent malpractice. In many cases, that’s true. However, there are ways that we can lessen the chances of receiving inadequate or improper care.

First, by staying healthy, you minimize the need to see a doctor, undergo surgical procedures and take medication. Simple things like eating right and staying active can go a long way toward spending less time in the doctor’s office.

Don’t be afraid to be your own advocate. Many people hesitate to question their doctors. However, you should ask questions and take time, whenever it’s possible, to make decisions regarding whether to undergo a treatment or procedure. This can include getting a second opinion. If your doctor doesn’t welcome questions, find another one.

Doctors may not enjoy hearing that their patients have been poking around on WebMD or other medical sites because in many cases the information doesn’t apply to a particular patient. However, these sites can be an important source of information and at least give patients ideas for questions to ask.

Always tell your doctor the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. If you don’t disclose your complete medical and family history, you risk having serious complications from medication and procedures. Tell your doctor about all of your symptoms, even if you don’t think they’re significant. He or she can’t provide the best care unless he or she has all of the necessary information.

It can be very difficult for patients and families to know whether an injury was unavoidable or if it was the result of negligence or error by a medical professional. Medical malpractice attorneys can work to determine whether you have a medical malpractice case.

Source: U.S. News, “Don’t Let Your Doctor Kill You,” Erika Schwartz, M.D., April 06, 2016

Get in Touch

Schedule a Free Initial Consultation

At Kennedy, Johnson, Schwab & Roberge, L.L.C., we handle all cases on a contingency fee basis. This means that we do not get paid unless and until you receive a settlement or a jury award.

Schedule a free, confidential consultation with a skilled Connecticut personal injury lawyer today.

News & insights
Brain Injury Awareness Month: March 2023
News

Brain Injury Awareness Month: March 2023

16

March
2023

Dram Shop Laws in Connecticut
ArticlesInsights

Dram Shop Laws in Connecticut

28

February
2023

The Leading Causes of Motor Vehicle Accidents
Articles

The Leading Causes of Motor Vehicle Accidents

20

February
2023

Upcoming Bipartisan Congressional Bills Focused on Protecting Children Online
News

Upcoming Bipartisan Congressional Bills Focused on Protecting Children Online

20

February
2023

KJSR Files Suit Against Meta Platforms Inc., Snap Inc.
News

KJSR Files Suit Against Meta Platforms Inc., Snap Inc.

6

February
2023

Wrong Way Accidents: What They Are and How They Occur
Insights

Wrong Way Accidents: What They Are and How They Occur

23

January
2023

Crosswalk Laws in Connecticut
Articles

Crosswalk Laws in Connecticut

6

January
2023

How Long Do You Have To File a Medical Malpractice Lawsuit?
Articles

How Long Do You Have To File a Medical Malpractice Lawsuit?

5

December
2022

Where Does Liability Fall in a Scaffolding Accident?
Articles

Where Does Liability Fall in a Scaffolding Accident?

23

November
2022

The Leading Causes of Intersection Accidents
Articles

The Leading Causes of Intersection Accidents

18

November
2022