How to prepare for life-changing medical news

A woman in the hospital. (Courtesy/istockphoto)

Medical care is full of twists and turns. Luckily, most people who require medical care for various reasons usually end up with good outcomes. That means they either end up getting cured of their disease, or having optimal control of symptoms. But others aren't so lucky. They may end up with a grim and incurable diagnosis, get life-altering harm during medical care, or even end up dead.

Medics must always maintain ongoing disclosure of evolving clinical matters, however bad. If an unexpected diagnosis comes up, you must be sensitively informed and advised on the next course of action. If something goes wrong as you navigate healthcare, the events must be shared with you regardless of the potential for liabilities. If death occurs, the next of kin must be promptly informed.