Includes bibliographical references and index.

Introduction: Why you need to be a smart patient. The smart patient quiz -- Getting to know you. Let's discover the juicy secrets about the person who controls your health: you -- Finding Dr. Right. How to find that gem of a doctor who'll make your life easier--and longer -- Let's play operation! You're having surgery? Use these insider tips you'll need to sail safely through the OR -- Prescription drugs. Take two and pray you're still here in the morning -- How to case a hospital. Use an expert's eye to find the best hospital for your specific goals--and learn why one size does not fit all -- Have a happily humdrum hospital stay. Only $2,900 a night and free sponge baths--what a deal! Just make sure you check out... -- Why you should always get a second opinion. Whose life is it anyway? -- Just what gives you the right? You have rights, you know. Here's how to use them -- Considering the alternatives. On pins and needles about acupuncture and herbs? Here's what you need to know about alternative medicine -- Take control of your health insurance. It's your most important--and expensive--health resource. Are you wasting it? -- Appendix 1 glossary: medical jargon explained -- Appendix 2 sample forms: your health journal, living will, power of attorney for health care, do not resuscitate (DNR) order -- Appendix 3 resources.