Before You Begin
High-quality health care is something we all
want. But research shows that many people do not have the
information they need to make informed health care choices.
The first step is to understand what quality means and how it
is measured. To find out, read
A Quick Look at Quality.
This guide can help you find and use
information about quality that is based on research. You can
use this information as you make five important health care
decisions:
It also tells how you can:
●
Improve communication with
your doctor.
●
Keep track of your personal
health history.
●
Get only the tests you need,
and the most accurate results.
●
Find self-help groups for the
support you need.
●
Make informed decisions about
elective (non-emergency) surgery.
●
Find reliable health
information on the Internet.
Each section also has
Quick Checks for Quality,
checklists which summarize the major ways you can check for
quality health care. If you want more detailed information,
refer to the resources at the end of each section.
This guide is not meant to be read all at
once. Download or print it out and use it as a reference when
you need it. Also, it isn't necessary or practical for any one
person to do everything this guide suggests. Pick and choose
what you need and what feels comfortable for you to try.
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