Most people check restaurant ratings or read consumer reviews before they make a choice. Shouldn't you also check the quality of the hospitals you rely on when you need medical care? In an emergency, your life may depend on getting to the nearest hospital. When you can plan ahead, you and your doctor should discuss which hospital will best meet your health care needs. Information is available to help you make an informed choice. Whether you have Medicare or another type of insurance, this publication can help you find and use information about hospital quality. Also available in Spanish.