Concord Hospital supports and urges patients to participate in the "Speak Up" program, sponsored by The Joint Commission. The "Speak Up" program urges patients to get involved in their care. This initiative provides simple advice on how you, as the patient, can make your care a positive experience. Research shows that patients who take part in decisions about their health care are more likely to have better outcomes. For more information download the "Speak Up" brochure.

The "Speak Up" program emphasizes the following points:

• Speak up if you have questions or concerns, and if you don't understand, ask again. It's your body and you have a right to know.


• Pay attention to the care you are receiving. Make sure you're getting the right treatments and medications by the right health care professionals. Don't assume anything.


• Educate your self about your diagnosis, and medical tests you are undergoing, and your treatment plan.


• Ask a trusted family member or friend to be your advocate.


• Know what medications you take and why you take them. Medication errors are the most common health care mistakes.


• Use a hospital, clinic, surgery center, or other type of health care organization that has undergone a rigorous on-site evaluation against established, state-of-the-art quality and safety standards, such as that provided by The Joint Commission.


• Participate in all decisions about your treatment. You are the center of the health care team.