What if you don't want to file a lawsuit?

Lauren Ellerman

Contributor

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For moral, financial, or personal reasons, we often have families who have been victims of medical negligence, or abuse, who do not want to file a lawsuit. So they ask us - "what are my other options?" We usually tell them the following:

1.    Well, you can create a public interest campaign. There is a woman who pickets a local surgical practice almost every morning with a sign that explains her husband's situation, but truth be told, I don't think it is an effective way to communicate the message.

2.    You could start a blog or website about patient rights. This is less time consuming that the picket line, and will reach more people.

3.     Notify the licensing agency - every nursing home, doctor, group home has a state license to practice. Contact that state agency and file a written complaint, most have process of record review and facility inspection.

4.    Word of Mouth - tell your friends at temple or church, or colleagues at work about your bad experience. I am sure they will thank you for the information - rather than have to find out themselves.

5.    Join an advocacy group. There are many long term care, patient rights etc groups across the country, dedicated to lobbying, education etc.

So please - if you want to make a difference, consider all the options. Not just a lawsuit (although that is the one we can help you with).