Speak Up™ Program
|
One of the most effective actions to improve patient safety is to ensure that patients and their families are active participants in their care. When patients and families are knowledgeable and involved, they become effective partners in reducing healthcare risks. South Shore Hospital is implementing The Joint Commission’s Speak UP™ program to encourage patients’ participation. |
Patients should:
- Speak up if you have questions or concerns, and if you don't understand, ask again. It's your body and you have a right to know.
- Pay attention to the care you are receiving. Make sure you're getting the right treatments and medications by the right health care professionals. Don't assume anything.
- Educate yourself about your diagnosis, the medical tests you are undergoing, and your treatment plan.
- Ask a trusted family member or friend to be your advocate.
- Know what medications you take and why you take them. Medication errors are the most common health care error.
- Use a hospital, clinic, surgery center, or other type of health care organization that has undergone a rigorous on-site evaluation against established state-of-the-art quality and safety standards, such as that provided by The Joint Commission.
- Participate in all decisions about your treatment. You are the center of the health care team.