Medical errors are one of the nation's leading causes of death and injury. A report by the Institute of Medicine estimates that as many as 98,000 people die in U.S. hospitals each year as the result of medical errors.
Government agencies, purchasers of group health care, physicians and other health care providers are working together to make the U.S. health care system safer.
The single most important way you can help to prevent errors is to be an active member of your health care team. That means taking part in every decision about your health care. Research shows that patients who are more involved with their care tend to get better results.
Written by familydoctor.org editorial staff
Reviewed/Updated: 11/10
Created: 09/02