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Making an Informed Decision

When considering what facilities can best meet your particular needs, it is important to consider the following:

• Teaching hospitals typically have medical specialists available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. There is the belief that teaching facilities offer better care since multiple health care professionals oversee patient care. Also, teaching facilities are typically in-step with the latest research and technological advancements. You will have medical students and physicians in training involved in your care.

• Ask around. Consider speaking with nurses and physicians that you trust. Also consider speaking with someone who has been a patient at the facility you are considering.

• Research the facilities accreditation. The Joint Commission (TJC) is an independent organization, which assesses the quality of care offered in most hospitals about once every three years. Check with the facility that you are considering and see if they have the latest findings available through the hospital library or the patient services department.

• Research the physicians you are considering. Are they board certified or board eligible? How experienced are they with needs similar to yours? Have they been published or recently completed related medical research? Are they affiliated with the facility you are considering? Lastly, your evaluation may include a tour of the facility.
• You may also want to consider an appointment with a hospital representative to answer any specific questions or concerns you might have.