Address a problem with your care
Raise a concern with your doctor or care team
No health care professional goes to work intending to harm patients, yet mistakes do happen. If a medical error or other adverse event happens to you, you can work with your care team to make sure that your needs are met. And, just by pointing out that something went wrong in your care, you might also help your provider prevent something similar from happening to another patient.
When to address the issue
It’s usually best to address a concern in the moment. For example, if a nurse is ready to give you a shot you weren't expecting, ask what the shot is for and whether they can double-check that the doctor ordered it for you.
At times it may make more sense to wait and speak with someone else on your care team with whom you feel more comfortable
If your concern isn’t addressed, or you don’t feel comfortable talking directly to someone on your care team, reach out to other staff at the facility or practice. Most hospitals and some long-term care facilities have patient advocacy offices with staff available to speak with patients confidentially. These departments are typically called "patient relations" or "customer service."
When raising a concern with your health care provider, consider the following:
- When possible, have a face-to-face conversation
- Ask a relative or friend to join you for support and to help remember what was said
- Remember that as a partner in your care, you have the right to have your questions and concerns addressed respectfully and thoroughly.
Often, raising a concern to your care team is enough for the issue to be addressed. If not, consider seeking help from others who may be able to assist you.
Get help from other sources
It’s important to report safety concerns for your immediate well-being and for the safety of future patients. If you are concerned that the clinical staff is not taking action, many organizations have staff who help with patient concerns or complaints.