Medical errors are a serious problem for patients in New York and across the nation. In fact, medical errors are one of the leading causes of death in the U.S., ranking third after heart disease and cancer. Some of the most common errors may be prevented if patients stay engaged with their medical treatment and ask questions.

The first step that patients can take to avoid being victims of medical errors is to research their health care practitioners. Before seeking treatment from a doctor, a patient may want to research the doctor's education and experience. If a doctor suggests a particular procedure to a patient, the patient should always ask about the potential risks and possible alternatives.

Because medication errors are one of the most common kinds of medical mistakes, a patient should always try to stay informed about the medicines that they are taking. Rather than just taking the pills a nurse brings, a hospital patient may want to double check the medication and the dosage and compare it to the information on their prescription. Patients may also want to ask questions about diagnostic tests as unnecessary exams that have no effect on a patient's treatment plan are often ordered by hospitals.

Some medical errors can have a serious effect on patient outcomes. For example, not checking for allergies before a drug is prescribed to a patient could result in a severe allergic reaction. A patient who is misdiagnosed could also be injured if their medical condition is not treated in a timely manner. A lawyer may be able to help a patient pursue financial reimbursement for added medical expenses and other damages that they have incurred due to medical errors.

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