Proactive Health: How to Navigate the Healthcare System with Confidence

When it comes to managing our health, having a trusted healthcare team and staying informed can make all the difference. In a recent episode of the Stealth Wellness Podcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with Dr. Geri Kirkbride, an expert in patient safety with over 40 years of experience. In our conversation, Dr. Kirkbride shared valuable insights into her career, the importance of safety protocols in healthcare, and practical ways we can all take charge of our health.

Building a Career in Patient Safety

Dr. Kirkbride’s journey in healthcare spans from direct nursing roles to executive leadership and teaching positions. Early in her career, she was drawn to critical care, working in ICU and cardiac rehabilitation. Over time, her interest in broader systems grew, eventually leading her to focus on patient safety and organizational practices. She went on to earn a Ph.D. and began researching how systemic improvements in healthcare could reduce human error and improve patient outcomes.

In her various roles, Dr. Kirkbride has championed teamwork and communication. She emphasizes that patient safety isn’t just about protocols—it’s about empowering healthcare teams to work together effectively, which ultimately leads to better outcomes.

Preventing Avoidable Errors in Healthcare

One of the more startling topics we discussed was the frequency of medical errors in healthcare systems. According to a 2000 study by Dr. Barbara Starfield, up to 225,000 Americans die each year due to preventable causes within healthcare settings. These include unnecessary surgeries, medication errors, infections, and adverse drug reactions. While these statistics are sobering, they highlight the importance of being proactive and well-informed when it comes to our health.

Practical Steps to Take Charge of Your Health

To avoid becoming a statistic, Dr. Kirkbride stresses the importance of active participation in your healthcare. Here are some essential practices she recommends:

1. Keep an Updated Health Record
   Maintaining a record of your health history is crucial, especially in emergencies. This should include a list of medications, allergies, past surgeries, and any conditions or treatments. Dr. Kirkbride suggests a simple, organized document you can carry in your wallet or store on your phone. Make sure someone you trust knows where to find it.
2. Communicate Honestly with Your Providers
   Patients sometimes withhold information from their providers, whether intentionally or by accident. Dr. Kirkbride compares this to keeping “puzzle pieces” in your pocket—without all the pieces, your healthcare providers can’t see the full picture. Be open and transparent with every detail, even if you think it’s minor. Sharing information about any supplements, lifestyle habits, or other treatments is especially important.
3. Bring an Advocate
   If you’re in the hospital or undergoing major treatments, having a family member or friend by your side can be invaluable. They can help listen, ask questions, and retain information that you might miss. With stress or medications impacting your attention, a second pair of ears can ensure instructions aren’t lost.
4. Ask for Written Instructions
   Before leaving a healthcare facility, ask for written instructions on any follow-up care. It’s easy to forget verbal instructions, so having a document to reference is key. Written instructions can help you (and your caregivers) remember crucial details about medication changes, follow-up appointments, or signs that may require further attention.
5. Stay on Top of Medication Changes
   If you’re prescribed new medications or your dosage changes, track these updates closely. Understanding why you’re taking each medication and knowing the side effects can alert you to any issues early on. This awareness helps prevent adverse reactions and allows you to alert providers to any problems.

Moving Toward a Safer Healthcare System

Throughout her career, Dr. Kirkbride has seen how small, thoughtful changes to healthcare systems can make a significant difference in patient safety. She’s passionate about making healthcare safer, more accessible, and more supportive for both patients and providers. Her work as an educator continues to inspire future leaders in nursing to prioritize quality and safety.

Looking Ahead

In the podcast, we discussed plans to bring Dr. Kirkbride back for more focused discussions on patient safety. These future episodes will dive into resources, strategies, and real-life examples to help patients navigate the healthcare system confidently.

Stay tuned for these follow-up episodes, where we’ll provide practical tools and information to empower you on your wellness journey. In the meantime, remember: by staying informed, communicating openly, and actively participating in your health, you can help create a safer healthcare experience for yourself and those around you.