What you don’t know CAN hurt you

Canada ranks 7th of 15 peers based on:• Wait times• Infections• post-hospital care etc.

Canada ranks 1st out of the 15 in healthcare dollars spent/capita

In 2004 as many as 23,000 patients suffered “adverse events” while in hospital

Adverse event rates are 7.5 per 100 admissions. 20% were associated with permanent disability or death

January 2015 article in the National PostMost instances of “adverse events” are not even reported internally, let alone to some federal agencyAs many as 70,000 patients a year suffer serious injury or death as a result of their treatmentWe can anticipate better outcomes when we and our advocate are actively involved in the process

Never accept medications without knowing the 6 W’s•Who?•What?•Why?•When?•With?•Without?

Did you know that patients, especially outside metropolitan areas, may not automatically be given access to specialists and facilities they need?

There is a difference between the care provided under your OHIP coverage and the care you can receive when you have extended coverage through an insurance policy

• Your hospital chart• Test results• Consultation

reports• Transfer papers from hospital to another facility

It is NOT an exact science

• More information at www.thefightofourlife.ca

• Visit the calendar on the website for book signings at Chapters

• The calendar identifies future speaking engagements.

You can contact Catherine Hawley at <thefightofourlife@gmail.com>