The September issue of Consumer Reports makes some startling revelations about the condition of our nation's hospitals.  For example, 38% of nurses stated that there was a lack of coordinated care and 28% complained of lack of cleanliness.  Consumer Reports collected suggestions from dozens of interviews from hospital workers including nurses, social workers, case managers, dieticians and pharmacists - and patient who were willing to share their experiences.  Here is a summary of their suggestions:

 

$ Research hospitals online including nursing and staffing levels. You do not necessarily have to go to the hospital your doctor recommends.
$ Bring an up to date list of medications including over the counter meds, emergency contacts, medical history and a written summary of you medical conditions and history.  Also bring your Durable Power of Attorney and Health Care Surrogate.  (In our office we put the client's Durable Power of Attorney and Health Care Surrogate on a flash drive along with any other information they provide us)
$ Have a friend or relative with you as much as possible.
$ Identify a single individual who will coordinate your care.  This can be the physician, social worker, case manager or patient advocate.
$ Be respectful to staff but advocate for yourself if you feel your needs are not being met.
$ Make sure you understand your plans for discharge.  Double check medications and make sure they are all reconciled. 

 

In my opinion and based on my experience with many clients, advocacy is absolutely critical and the most essential part  in any phase of the health care process.

Sincerely,
 
Alice Reiter Feld
Law Offices of Alice Reiter Feld