10 Steps to Protect Yourself When You Go to the Doctor/Hospital

1.  Take an extra pair of ears.  Someone should always go with you to hear what the doctor says.

2.  Take a notepad and take notes.

3.  Go into every meeting with a health care provider with a list of questions and make sure you get answers to your questions before you leave.  Speak up!  Don't be embarrassed or intimidated.  If you don't know, ask.  Don't let the health care provider leave your room until you have the answers to your questions.

4.  Ask for your own copy of test results.  Don't rely on their interpretation.

5.  Always wash your hands or use sanitizer.  Everything you touch in hospitals has germs!  Ask every health care provider who touches you if they have washed their hands.  This seems silly, but the infection rate in hospitals has skyrocketed.

6.  Ask to read your own chart.  You have the right.

7.  Research your doctors.  Information is available online at www.indianapcf.com regarding malpractice claims filed against them.

8.  Before surgery, use a marker or ink pen and write "NO" on the body part or limb not involved in the surgery.

9.  Carry your living will and healthcare directive with you in your wallet or purse at all times.  Designate whom you want making health care decisions for you if you are incapacitated.

10.  Write all of your medications and dosages on an index card and carry it with you at all times.  Keep it updated.