The safety & quality of health care
Want to check to make sure you're getting safe, high-quality health care? Here are some simple ideas.
Your safety
When you're going to a doctor or hospital for treatment, make sure you understand:
- What your diagnosis is
- Why you need treatment at this time
- What your treatment options are
- Whether the treatment options are based on the latest scientific evidence
- The benefits of each treatment
- The cost of each treatment
Doctor quality
When choosing a doctor, check for doctors who:
- Are rated to give quality care. Learn about Priority Health's "apple" ratings for primary care quality.
- Has the training and background that meet your needs
- Takes steps to prevent illness - for example, talks to you about quitting smoking
- Has privileges at the hospital of your choice
- Is part of your health plan, unless you can afford to pay extra
- Encourages you to ask questions
- Listens to you
- Treats you with respect
Hospital safety & quality
Before you go to the hospital, read our tips on preventing medical errors. Then, look for a hospital that:
- Is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations
- Is rated highly by consumer or other groups
Find hospital quality ratings.
Find hospital safety ratings.
- Is one where your doctor has privileges, if that is important to you
- Is covered by your health plan
- Has experience with your condition
- Has had success with your condition
- Checks and works to improve its own quality of care.
More safety & quality resources
For a closer look at how to be a smarter health care shopper and consumer, you can:
