Patients who go to the doctor prepared with the questions they want answered get better care, according to the federal government’s Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ).

They have a new website that can help you start the communication with your doctor, even before you get to your appointment.

AHRQ says,

Asking questions and providing information to your doctor and other care providers can improve your care. Talking with your doctor builds trust and leads to better results, quality, safety, and satisfaction.

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The Food and Drug Administration warns health care facilities and people who use medical devices at home to check the power cords for wear and tear, especially if oxygen is being used nearby.

The FDA has more than 120 reports of sparking, charring, and fires from cords used by two device manufacturers, Hospira Inc. and Abbott Nutrition, and is concerned that there may be similar problems with cords on other devices.  Read the rest of this entry »