We all expect to receive the best possible care when we visit the emergency room—after all, we’re there because something urgent and important is happening to our health. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Poor ER outcomes—whether due to misdiagnosis, rushed treatment, or communication breakdowns—can have serious consequences for patients. But what do you do when your care falls short?
At ER Watchdog, we believe it’s important that patients feel empowered to speak up when they’re not receiving the level of care they deserve. Here’s how to identify when your care has fallen short, and more importantly, how to speak up to ensure your voice is heard.
Identifying Poor ER Outcomes
Poor outcomes in the ER can range from minor to life-threatening. Some of the most common signs that something has gone wrong include:
Rushed Diagnosis: If the provider seems to quickly dismiss your symptoms without a thorough examination or appropriate tests, this can lead to a misdiagnosis.
Overlooked Symptoms: Sometimes, a key symptom might be ignored, or not fully explored, leading to an incomplete diagnosis.
Lack of Communication: If you’re not being updated on your condition, or you feel your concerns are dismissed, it could be a sign that your care is not being prioritized.
Failure to Follow Up: Discharge instructions are important, but if you’re not given clear directions or if you don’t receive the follow-up care you were promised, that’s a serious issue.
If you leave the ER feeling unsure about your diagnosis or how your care went, it’s important to take a step back and assess whether your treatment was truly adequate.
How to Speak Up in the ER
- Be Persistent
If you feel like something isn’t right, don’t hesitate to ask questions or request a second opinion. Many patients feel intimidated by the speed of ER visits, but your health is the most important priority. You have the right to ask for more tests, or even request a different provider if you feel like your concerns are being ignored. - Request Clear Explanations
Ask your doctor or nurse to explain your diagnosis, the treatment plan, and any next steps clearly. If you don’t understand something, ask for it to be explained in simpler terms. Providers should be willing to ensure you’re fully informed. - Ask for a Review
If you feel your care was rushed or incomplete, ask for a review of your case. You can request that the ER doctor, nurse, or another provider reassess your symptoms and diagnosis. The more thorough the evaluation, the less likely something important will be missed. - File a Complaint
If you believe your care has fallen short and your concerns weren’t addressed in the moment, don’t hesitate to file a formal complaint. Every hospital has a patient advocacy department that’s dedicated to handling these concerns and ensuring proper follow-up. - Seek Legal Help
In extreme cases, poor ER outcomes can lead to serious health issues or long-term effects. If you believe your care was negligent or your complaint wasn’t adequately handled, you may want to consider legal options to pursue justice and accountability.
Why ER Watchdog Is Watching
At ER Watchdog, we’re here to help ensure that your voice is heard when it comes to poor ER outcomes. We understand that navigating the healthcare system can be challenging, especially when things don’t go as expected. That’s why we advocate for better communication, clearer diagnoses, and above all, patient-centered care. If you believe your care fell short, take action today and let us help you get the justice and accountability you deserve.