According to the Institute Of Medicine, up to 100,000 people are estimated to die in U.S. hospitals each year as a result of medical errors. Many of the medical mistakes occur when patients and doctors don't communicate together, and problems can involve the diagnosis, medicines and other health care issues. Here are 7 tips you can take to lessen the possibility of your medical errors in your medical care:

- Take part in every decision about your care. Actively participate as a part of your health care team. Research indicates that those who are involved are less likely to be a victim of medical errors.

- Give any medications you currently take. This includes all prescription and over the counter medications, home remedies and dietary supplements. Doing this may prevent a medication interaction, which could cause one or more of your medications to be ineffective.

- If you're staying in the hospital, ask about the infection control program. Let doctors and other hospital personnel know you are concerned about preventing infections while receiving medical care. Discuss any procedures that can help reduce the risk of infection.

- Ensure proper hand hygiene. Make sure your doctors and nurses clean their hands before they examine you. It is one of the most important ways to prevent the spread of infection.

- Double check your prescriptions. Be certain that medicine you pick up at the pharmacy was actually prescribed by your doctor. Medicine errors involved the wrong drug or the wrong dose.

- Take a loved one to the doctor with you especially when you're scheduled to have a medical procedure. It's not only comforting, but it's a good idea to have someone there to help you if necessary.

- Clarify details about your surgery. Be sure that everyone involved in the procedure is totally clear about what will be done. Although rare, there are cases of wrong site surgery.

Although health care providers are working to make the health care system safer, increasing medical errors associated with physician burnout and stress are becoming more of a concern for patients and medical experts. Medical experts say it's imperative that patients, first, take control and get involved. It may prevent errors that could prove fatal.


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