For instance, if a hospital in your area uses bar code technology to organize treatment and medication, go to that hospital. "You will dramatically reduce the risks," Dr. Oz says.

Does your hospital use a "preflight" checklist?

• YOU: The Smart Patient by Dr. Mehmet Oz and Dr. Michael Roizen 

From The Oprah Winfrey Show Medical Mistakes: Dr. Oz Talks to Actor Dennis Quaid

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