When you check-in to a hospital could have an impact on the care and treatment you receive, according to an article in the New York Times.

Patients admitted on the weekend can be at increased risk of medical malpractice in New York City, including negligence, understaffing, inadequate care and even an increased risk of hospital infections,

While New York City hospitals may make a concerted effort to mitigate any adverse effects these conditions have on their patients, the fact remains that a potential medical malpractice situation may arise if some of these areas of concern are not adequately monitored.

According to a study published this month in the journal Medical Care, every hospital has its own levels by which adequate care standards are measured. While one facility may be able to provide proper and attentive care while operating at an overall bed occupancy rate of 70%, another hospital may not reach a threshold for concern until they reach a 90% occupancy rate.

The same applies when it comes to nurse-to-patient ratios, the weekend availability of your physician and even the number of patients carrying the influenza virus within a particular hospital at the time you are admitted.

Doctors and medical professionals point out that the patient themselves have some control over reducing their risks involving these key conditions, particularly in a non-emergency situation, such as an elective surgery. The more information you have regarding the hospital's current occupancy rate, whether your doctor is going to be accessible during your stay, the number of staff on duty and whether or not the facility is treating a large number of flu-infected patients, the easier it is for you to make an informed decision regarding the timing of your admission.