Make Patient Safety A Priority: How To Reduce Issaquah Medical Malpractice Risks In 2026
A new year often means new resolutions, many of which are designed to protect or improve your health and well-being. Your doctor and other healthcare providers play a vital role in reaching your goals, but they are also capable of mistakes and errors. Unfortunately, these can have potentially devastating consequences.
At Injury Law Group NW, we represent patients harmed by medical negligence throughout Washington. As we head into the new year, our experienced Issaquah medical malpractice attorney wants you to know how to be your own patient advocate and what to do if you suspect medical malpractice.
Medical Risks Issaquah Patients Often Face in Getting Routine Care
According to the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner, as many as 1,000 medical malpractice cases are reported in King County each year. With shortages in the medical field and the increased demand for care, it is an increasingly common problem.
Malpractice in Issaquah can happen during otherwise routine interactions with healthcare providers, especially when communication breaks down or systems fail behind the scenes. Common risks patients face include:
- Rushed appointments and having their concerns dismissed.
- Missed and delayed diagnoses prevent patients from receiving appropriate care.
- Lack of coordination between providers, such as specialists and primary care doctors.
- Not understanding the risks of procedures due to a lack of informed consent.
- Inadequate follow-up after procedures, tests, or hospital discharges.
- Receiving incorrect prescriptions or dosage instructions.
- Infections or complications resulting from poor hygiene or lack of monitoring in clinical settings.
Unfortunately, even the best-intentioned providers can make mistakes, especially when dealing with high patient volume, electronic records, or split responsibilities between staff.
Tips to Advocate for Your Own Safety as a Patient
To reduce Issaquah medical malpractice risks, be your own patient advocate. Whether you’re seeing a new doctor in 2026 or want to be more proactive in managing a chronic condition, follow these steps:
- Bring a written list of symptoms, medications, and questions to every appointment.
- Ask for plain-language explanations of any diagnosis, treatment plan, or medication.
- Repeat instructions back to confirm you understood.
- Keep a personal health record, including test results, diagnoses, and provider contact info.
- Have a trusted family member or friend with you, especially during hospital stays or procedures.
- Double-check prescriptions at the pharmacy for accuracy.
Speak up if something doesn’t feel right, whether it’s a symptom being overlooked or a rushed explanation. Doctors are only human, but that doesn’t excuse them from preventable mistakes. When they are negligent, you can hold them liable under the Washington Revised Code.
Harmed by a Medical Error? Contact Our Issaquah Medical Malpractice Attorney
Speaking up can help you get the medical care you need, but it can’t always prevent mistakes. If you or someone you love suffered harm due to a provider’s negligence, Injury Law Group NW can help you hold them accountable.
We investigate, gather evidence, and fight for the maximum compensation. To request a consultation, call or contact our experienced Issaquah medical malpractice attorney online today.
Sources:
insurance.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2024-12/2024-medmal-annual-rpt-final.pdf
app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=7.70
