About 250,000 people die each year from mistakes made by doctors and healthcare practitioners. Far more suffer serious injuries as a result of the care they receive.
If you’re one of them, you’re likely wondering what you can do about your injuries and whether you have a case against the healthcare providers you worked with.
Medical malpractice is a major issue and the more you understand it, the easier it will be to get the help you need. So, what is medical malpractice and what can you do if you’re a victim of it? Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Medical Malpractice?
Medical malpractice is a legal issue that happens when a medical practitioner or healthcare center injures a patient under their care. The injury must be the result of negligence either in the type of care they provide or the information they give patients.
Keep in mind that the type of injury that the person suffered must be severe if you want to file a claim. Injuries don’t have to be physical. They can be financial.
For example, if the injury you suffer causes you to need more extensive healthcare or be unable to return to work, you likely have a valid claim.
What Is Considered Medical Malpractice?
The best way to understand medical malpractice is to look at a medical malpractice example. Say you went to a doctor to get a strange lump in your breast tissue looked at. If they dismiss your concerns or provide you with the wrong diagnosis, you may have a medical malpractice claim.
If your doctor recommends a surgery that you don’t need or discharges you from the hospital before you’re ready, you may have a malpractice claim. Any situation where you experience negative effects from receiving inadequate or wrong medical care may qualify.
What to Do If You’re a Victim
The best thing you can do if you think you’re a victim of medical malpractice is to talk to an attorney. This is true whether you received unnecessary surgery or a breast cancer misdiagnosis.
Document as much of the incident as you can. Get the names of each doctor you interact with and bring that information to your attorney.
They’ll be able to review your case and determine whether taking your case to court is in your best interest. If it is, Tiernan medical negligence solicitors will be able to represent you and help you get the settlement you need to focus on your recovery.
Medical Malpractice Is a Serious Concern
What is medical malpractice? How can I tell if I am a victim? These are just a few common questions people ask when they’re wondering if the care they received wasn’t appropriate.
Now that you understand what medical malpractice is and what to do if you’re a victim of it, you’re ready to examine your situation in detail. Just remember that it’s always best to contact an attorney and get a professional opinion on your case.
Not sure what to look for when choosing a medical malpractice lawyer? Check out our latest posts for helpful tips.
