Undergoing any medical procedure can be stressful, and the threat of medical malpractice can make even routine procedures worrisome. Authorities estimate that 440,000 patients die as a result of medical negligence each year.

Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do if you want to avoid becoming the victim of medical malpractice in the future. Here are three steps you should take prior to any medical procedure to mitigate the risks of medical malpractice.

1. Play your part in preventing common medical errors.

In order to help the medical staff watching over you avoid making mistakes when administering your care, it's essential that you take the time to learn about some of the most common medical errors that occur. 

One medical error that occurs regularly is the administration of the wrong drug or the wrong dose. In fact, 1.5 million people suffer as a result of errors made when it comes to administering medication.

By doing something as simple as asking the nurse or doctor to explain what medication they are giving you, and what dose is being given, you force the medical professional to double-check and ensure your medication is correct. 

2. Bring along a friend or relative when receiving any serious medical attention.

Whenever you visit the hospital for serious medical attention, be sure that you bring along a trusted friend or relative. Having a second set of eyes and ears watching over you can help you catch mistakes that you might otherwise miss.

It's not uncommon for someone receiving medical attention to be highly emotional, so having a rational third-party listening to your diagnosis and care plan can also help you identify any courses of action that don't seem right.

Preventing medical negligence is the only way to avoid becoming a victim of medical malpractice, and having someone to help serve as your advocate can go a long way toward preventing serious medical errors.

3. Seek out a second opinion.

One of the easiest things you can do to avoid medical negligence is to seek out a second opinion. Experts estimate that Americans can expect to receive at least one misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis during their lifetime.

Failure to receive care because you haven't been properly diagnosed could have deadly consequences, so you should always seek out the opinion of a second medical professional.

Even the most trusted doctor can make a mistake, so having a second opinion will ensure that you receive the best possible care in the future.

There are many things you can do as a patient to avoid becoming the victim of medical malpractice. Be sure that you take the time to learn how you can become more vigilant when it comes to your medical care in the future. Contact lawyers like those from R.J. Marzella & Associates, P.C. for more information.