Medical Errors Kill 98,000 Americans Every Year

By: Dr. Alan Rosenthal

The Institute of Medicine (IOM) recently published a horrifying report detailing the amount of people who are killed, maimed, crippled or poisoned in American hospitals each year. We are gaining a much larger awareness that our medical health care system is actually causing an alarming number of deaths and medical harm. Estimates of as many as 98,000 people die each year because of preventable medical errors.

The Initial Warning: Eleven Years Ago

The Consumers Union (CU), Consumer Report’s non-profit publisher, indicates that such high numbers are a direct result of the lack of action taken after IOM’s last report eleven years ago. Further action is needed, especially since reducing hospital-acquired infections would improve patient care and reduce costs.

According to the 1999 report, medical errors cost the U.S. $17-$29 billion each year and recommended that certain changes be implemented in order to improve patient care and safety. However eleven years later, many are uncertain as to whether or not this initial red flag had been reviewed and rectified. It is very clear that our current view on health and medicine needs to change. There are too many avoidable errors that occur in hospitals and too many unsafe drugs prescribed.

FDA Drug Recalls and Warnings

In recent news the FDA placed new warnings for drugs like Levaquin and Cipro, antibiotics often prescribed to prevent serious infections, because they were causing tendon rupture and skin disorders. Also, there are no doubts that other drugs currently being prescribed are harming many more people. Thankfully, people are gaining a much larger awareness to the health costs associated with taking medications.

This is one of the reasons why I am so passionate about teaching people about health and wellness. Although, I believe that there are times when we need the help of a skilled medical doctor with crisis care or in emergency situations, but with chronic degenerative diseases, natural approaches have proven to be very effective.

Positive Effects of Preventative Health Care

When you consider the value and safety of natural Chiropractic wellness care, know that insurance companies consider Chiropractors to be the safest of ALL health care professionals with malpractice insurance. In order to begin your path to a healthier and longer life, contact our Thousand Oaks Chiropractic office today for a comprehensive consultation.

Optimal Health = Optimum Function

Whole Health Family Chiropractic in Thousand Oaks, California has a team of highly specialized health professionals that will help you reach your Health and Wellness goals. Chiropractic wellness care improves your body’s natural ability to heal and enhances your overall quality of life. Imagine living a healthy and holistic lifestyle free of asthma, low back pain, ear infections, menstrual pain, headaches, ADHD, and many others. Take the first step toward better living and contact us today at (805) 449-0061.

Dr. Alan Rosenthal also dedicates his time to health awareness and education within his community. He offers free lectures and workshops to businesses and organizations. If you would like to schedule Dr. Rosenthal to speak at your next event or to view his list of chiropractic lecture topics, please go to Free Lecture Topics.