Quality Quick Checks

When choosing a 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.

Look for a doctor who:

• Is rated to give quality care.
• 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.

Look for a hospital that:

• Is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations.
• Is rated highly by consumer or other groups.
• 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.

NOTE: Quick Checks for Quality: Choosing Quality Health Care. Consumer brochure, December 1998. Agency for Health Care Policy and Research, Rockville, MD. www.ahrq.gov/consumer/quick.htm