TAKE ACTION

If you or a loved one has been harmed - report it! Your patient rights include filing complaints and grievances with organizations which can include dissatisfaction with treatment. By reporting what you or a loved one has experienced you will help highlight deficiencies in the system to help build a safer more resilient system.

FOR MEDICAL DEVICE ISSUES

Search the FDA MAUDE database. It collects information on device-associated injuries, malfunctions and deaths. If you suspect that you have been harmed by one of these devices, you should report it to FDA Medwatch.

FOR DRUG EVENTS

Report a drug adverse event to FDA MedWatch.

FOR RESEARCH ISSUES

File complaints on research issues at the Office of Human Research Protections.

FOR FRAUD

File complaints of fraud to the Office of Inspector General.

FOR HOSPITAL ISSUES

Patients can file complaints through multiple organizations. The Joint Commission is an accrediting organization and reviews quality of care complaints. Find more outlets in the resources section.

AGAINST DISCRIMINATION

Patients from diverse backgrounds may be less likely to speak up if they feel something is wrong. A family member, friend or advocate can support and represent you.

FOR PRACTITIONERS

Communicate with your state medical board if you have a complaint about an individual clinician.

FOR HEALTH FACILITIES

Contact your State Department of Health for complaints about hospitals, hospices or nursing homes.