Emergency situations are sometimes unavoidable, but routine health maintenance can prevent many serious medical problems from becoming life threatening. Be proactive in your care and take the steps that may save your life.

• FIND A PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER
  Physicians who regularly see the same patients are more likely to create a personal connection and notice changes that could signal major health problems.
   
• CHOOSE YOUR HOSPITAL CAREFULLY
  Before an emergency, read consumer reviews and check a hospital’s complication rates and patient satisfaction rankings through the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. Also ask what measures a hospital has in place to prevent errors and infections.
   
• REPORT SMALL HEALTH CHANGES
  Though they may seem insignificant, tell your doctor. Small revelations could raise a red flag.
   
• ARM YOURSELF WITH INFORMATION
  Keep on file the medications you take, medical history, past procedures and other health details so you or a loved one can access it quickly.
   
• PREVENT ILLNESS
  Talk to family members to learn about any genetic medical conditions and get preventive screenings if necessary.
   
• BUDDY UP
  Bring along a patient advocate, either a hired professional, trusted family member or friend, particularly if you expect bad news. Studies show information retention drops significantly when the news is bad.
   
• SEEK MORE THAN ONE OPINION
  Patients not satisfied with diagnosis or treatment should research and seek another highly rated provider.
   
• JOIN A SUPPORT GROUP
  It can boost morale and might shed light on treatment options.
   
• WEAR A MEDICAL ALERT BAND
  You may be unconscious and among strangers unfamiliar with deadly allergies and other conditions.
   
• DON’T DRIVE TO THE HOSPITAL YOURSELF
  Enlist a friend or family member to take you in the event of an emergency or dial 911 if your condition is critical.