How Arizonans Should Reduce the Risk of Doctor Errors
The experienced medical malpractice attorneys at Harris Powers & Cunningham have been helping patients hold doctors accountable for their errors for 25 years. We are often successful in the courtroom when someone has been seriously injured or killed by medical negligence.
In many situations, patients become victims of doctor errors because — like most people — they put their trust in doctors who tell them they know what's best. Ultimately, it is your doctor's responsibility to act competently. However, there are a few simple things patients may be able to do to find some protection by reducing the risk of doctor errors.
Do your research. There are many federal and state licensing organizations as well as private services that record doctor negligence. Checking with these organizations can help you learn whether your doctor has acted negligently before. You are never required to check up on your doctor, but many healthcare providers who have been in trouble before continue to cause serious harm to patients. So, doing some research is a good idea.
Ask questions. It is normal to forget to ask important questions about your healthcare when you are in a doctor visit. These visits are often rushed and people who are already in physical pain are often overwhelmed. Write down your questions before you go so you don't forget to ask them. Ask your doctor to write down instructions for care, taking medications and scheduling follow-up appointments. It is also a good idea to bring someone with you to ask the questions you don't think of.
Get a second opinion. You are never required to see the first doctor you visit with. The law gives you a choice of providers. If your doctor's advice sounds strange, if it causes you pain or appear ineffective, a second opinion may help protect you against further doctor errors.
Ask to see a copy of your health records. When you are being treated by certain healthcare providers, federal privacy laws give you the right to have access to your health records. In most cases copies of your records must be given to you within 30 days.
Have corrections made to your health records. If something in your health records is inaccurate or missing, federal law may give you the right to have it changed. This may prevent trouble down the road.
Thousands of people are injured by doctor's errors every year. If you are worried about a doctor's wrongful actions, please contact the lawyers at Harris Powers & Cunningham by calling 602.271.9344. Located in Phoenix, we are recognized as one of the premier medical malpractice law firms in Arizona. We offer free initial consultations.
