Each year, many Americans die from medical errors. Such errors can happen anywhere in the health care system. They can involve medicines, surgery, diagnosis, equipment, or lab reports. Other errors happen when doctors and their patients have problems communicating.

Hospitals, doctors, and government agencies are working on ways to make health care safer. But there are things you can do, too. These suggestions can help you protect yourself and your family from such errors.

People who are involved with their care tend to get better results.

It's vital to ask questions of your doctors, pharmacist, and nurses. This is especially true if something occurs that's out of the ordinary. This might be a pill that looks different from what you normally get. It might be a test you had but never found out the results.

Make sure all your doctors know about every medicine you use. This includes both prescription and over-the-counter medicines, and dietary supplements, such as vitamins and herbs. Some over-the-counter products can interact with each other or with prescription medicine in harmful ways. Your doctor can't protect you from that if they don't know everything you're taking. Also, tell your doctor about any side effects you may be having from medicine.

Also, at least once a year, bring all of your medicines and supplements with you to your doctor. This can help them keep your records up-to-date, which can help you get better quality care.

Always keep a list with you at all times of any allergies you have. Make sure your doctor knows about any allergies and bad reactions you've had to medicines. And be sure that these are documented in your medical record. This can help prevent prescribing a medicine that can harm you.

When your doctor writes you a prescription, make sure you can read it. If you can't read their handwriting, your pharmacist might not be able to either. Many doctors have computer-generated prescriptions now.

Ask for information about your medicines that you can understand. Do this both when your medicines are prescribed and when you get them from your pharmacist.

When you pick up your medicine from the pharmacy, speak up if you have questions about the directions on your medicine labels. For example, ask if "4 doses daily" means taking a dose every 6 hours around the clock or just during waking hours.

Learn about your condition and treatments by asking your doctor and nurse and by using other reliable sources. The more you know, the better able you'll be to track your recovery. You'll also be able to recognize symptoms that could mean your condition is getting worse.

Always ask questions when you don't understand. Keep asking until you do understand. Many times people are afraid to ask questions. Remember your health, and perhaps even your life, depend on understanding your condition, how to take care of yourself, and how to take your medicines.

Be your own best advocate. If you really have trouble asking questions, bring a trusted family member or friend who will ask them for you.