Failure to diagnose errors are becoming more common in New York and all across the country. When doctors overlook or fail to properly analyze their patients’ symptoms, they cannot provide them with the right diagnosis or treatment. If you have been under the weather or not feeling your best lately, you may be getting ready to make an appointment to see your doctor. You may have put off this decision for as long as possible because sometimes you feel your doctor is not taking your ailments seriously.

It is not necessary for you to avoid medical treatment because you fear for your health and life. Here is a brief overview of steps you can take to avoid becoming a medical malpractice victim.

Be truthful during exams

You may feel uncomfortable discussing your symptoms and medical history with your doctor. But if you do not provide him or her with complete and truthful information, your doctor may not be able to provide you with the right diagnosis and treatment. He or she may misinform you and recommend for you to undergo treatment you do not need which may cause further harm and shorten your life expectancy.

Get second and third opinions

You are under no obligation to make your medical decisions based on information you receive from one doctor. Your insurance may have certain professionals they will cover for you to see. You do have the option to get additional medical opinions about your health and original doctor’s assessment so you can make the best decisions about your situation. If your doctor has told you that you suffer from a certain condition, do not see another general doctor for a second opinion. You should consider seeing specialists who only treat the type of condition you may have. They are less likely to make mistakes in diagnosing and treating it.

There is nothing wrong with placing your trust in your doctors, but you should not do so blindly. Protect yourself by playing a more active role in the delivery of health care services you receive.