Lesson 4 Managing Consumer Problems Resolving Consumer Problems

Lesson 4 Managing Consumer Problems

Resolving Consumer Problems l l Take action to correct consumer problems When purchasing a product it’s important to know the return policy of the store before making a purchase If a product has a warranty, check the package to make sure warranty is there if not ask the store for a copy Save packaging, receipt and warranty of the product you bought

Resolving Consumer Problems (Con’t) l l If the product comes with instructions, read them carefully (*pay careful attention to skin and hair products) Follow steps for assembly and use Use product only for its intended use If using product is being used correctly and isn’t working, read the warranty to see how the manufacturer wants it returned

Resolving Consumer Problems (Con’t) l l l If not happy with results in response to your efforts, ask for help from: Better Business Bureau (Handles complaints about local merchants. There services are dispute resolution and truth-in-advertising complaints) Consumer Advocates (people or groups whose purpose is to take on regional, national and even international consumer issues)

Resolving Consumer Problems (Con’t) l l l Local, State and Federal Government Agencies (work to protect consumer’s rights. 2 main federal agencies are the FDA and Consumer Product Safety Commission) Health Care Providers (if you are having problems with your doctor or insurance or something isn’t covered, you can change health care providers to get the best possible care. ) If a health care professional fails to provide adequate treatment they may be guilty of malpractice- failure by a health care professional to meet accepted standards

Health Fraud l l l The sale of worthless products or services that claim to prevent disease or cure other health problems. (Also known as quackery) *You have the responsibility to protect your health and well -being Look for ads that claim the following: – – – “Secret Formula” “Miracle Cure” “Overnight Results” “All Natural” “Hurry, this offer expires soon”

Health Fraud l Protect yourself from health fraud by: – – Checking product’s or service’s claim with a doctor or other health care professional Get opinions from family and friends Check Better Business Bureau to see if there are complaints about the product or service Check with a professional health organization about the claim