Navigating the Health Care System - Advice Columns from AHRQ Director Dr. Carolyn Clancy http://www.ahrq.gov/consumer/cc.htm AHRQ Director Carolyn Clancy, M.D., has prepared brief, easy-to-understand advice columns for consumers to help navigate the health care system. They will address important issues such as how to recognize high-quality health care; how to be an informed health care consumer; and how to choose a hospital, doctor, and health plan. Tue, 3 Nov 2009 08:30:00 EDT Does Your Hospital Do A Good Job? http://www.ahrq.gov/consumer/cc/cc110309.htm In her latest column, Dr. Clancy highlights new information available to consumers on comparing hospital performance on patient readmission, and explains the steps individuals can take to prevent any unnecessary return trips to the hospital. More

]]> Tue, 6 Oct 2009 06:20:00 EDT Open Enrollment: What To Consider When Choosing a Health Plan http://www.ahrq.gov/consumer/cc/cc100609.htm Dr. Clancy explains how different health plan options work and highlights important factors workers may wish to consider when choosing next year's health insurance option. More

]]> Tue, 15 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EDT What You Need To Know about Blood Thinner Pills http://www.ahrq.gov/consumer/cc/cc091509.htm Dr. Clancy explains how individuals who take blood thinner pills can ensure they get the benefits of their medicine by making a few changes in their lifestyle. More

]]> Tue, 1 Sep 2009 10:00:00 EDT How to Make an Emergency Department Visit a Safe One http://www.ahrq.gov/consumer/cc/cc090109.htm Dr. Clancy explains how you can prepare in advance to help ensure you get good, timely, and safe care should an unexpected emergency department visit occur. More

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