In March 2002, the Joint Commission, together with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, launched a national campaign to urge patients to take a role in preventing health care errors by becoming active, involved, and informed participants on their health care team.
Speak up if you have questions or concerns.
Pay attention to the care you get.
Educate yourself about your illness.
Ask a trusted member to be your advisor or supporter.
Know what medicines you take and why you take them.
Use a health care organization that has been carefully checked out.
Participate in all decisions about your treatment.