Despite advances in medical technology, injuries associated with medical malpractice still remain one of the leading causes of death in the U.S.
If you or someone you love sustains an injury attributable to medical error, you may pursue a medical malpractice lawsuit against the responsible party.
While establishing whether you have a case against the hospital or healthcare professional, it might help to understand what causes medical malpractice in the first place. Here are some of the instances when you may consider filing a medical malpractice lawsuit against the responsible party.
When your condition is misdiagnosed
Misdiagnosis is one of the leading causes of patient death. In fact, studies show that misdiagnosis accounts for over 160,000 permanent injuries or deaths per year. When a patient’s condition is misdiagnosed, the end result is usually wrong or delayed treatment, which may in turn result in death or a life-altering injury.
When there are surgical errors
If doctors commit a mistake during a surgical procedure, the patient will often suffer medical complications that may result in injuries or death. Common surgical errors may include leaving surgical sponges or tools inside the patient. These errors usually happen when surgeons fail to keep track of the surgical materials before, during and after the surgery. You may also pursue a medical malpractice lawsuit against the hospital or the doctor if they fail to warn you about the potential side effects of a medical procedure.
When there are prescription errors
Prescription errors may include prescribing the wrong medication, administering the wrong dose or prescribing medications that counteract other medications resulting in further complications for the patient. Prescription errors can greatly impact young children and elderly people whose immune system has been weakened.
Injuries resulting from medical malpractice can be devastating. Find out how you can pursue the compensation you deserve if you are hurt while in the care of a healthcare provider.