You are the most important member of your care team. Whether you have an appointment at a Fairview clinic or are an inpatient at one of Fairview’s hospitals, we encourage you to be an active participant in your care.

Before visiting one of our facilities, please read the following tips for patient safety:
 
Be active and speak up

• Share medical information. Write down and carry important medical information with you, including allergies and the names, addresses and phone numbers of important health care providers.
• Make sure you understand the plan of treatment. Ask the nurse or doctor to explain anything that is unclear.
• Make sure you know what medications you should take. If you have a question or if something seems wrong, let your provider know.
• Know who is in charge of your care. Make sure that someone, such as your personal doctor, is in charge of the care for you or your family member.

Take notes
Write down any questions about you or your family member's condition, treatment, clinic visit or hospital stay. Take notes during your visit or ask your doctor or nurse for information in writing about medicines, follow-up care and treatment plans.

Bring someone with you
Bring a family member or friend who knows your medical history to your appointment. Having an advocate with you helps ensure the best care possible. Family members often provide the comfort and support you need to promote your return to good health.

Learn as much as you can
The most important way you can help to prevent medical errors is to be an active and informed member of your health care team.

Read about other safety tips: Medication safety