What is Medical Malpractice or Medical Negligence?
Medical malpractice or medical negligence is defined as a situation where a healthcare provider, such as a doctor, nurse, or medical facility, fails to provide the standard of care expected in their profession, resulting in harm to the patient.
Unfortunately, medical malpractice claims are incredibly common in Georgia, and can have catastrophic consequences for patients and their families.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 138 million patients are harmed each year due to medical errors. In the United States alone, medical errors are estimated to cause around 250,000 to 440,000 deaths each year, making it one of the leading causes of death. Additionally, a survey by the National Patient Safety Foundation revealed that 21% of American adults reported having experienced a medical error.
Types of Medical Malpractice Cases
Medical Malpractice cases are complex and require an experienced attorney. The attorneys at Hanson Fuller have successfully litigated and settled malpractice claims in Georgia. Contact us today for a free consultation.
What to do if you or a loved one suspect they have been victims of medical malpractice:
1. Document Everything
Keep detailed records of all medical treatments, symptoms, and communications with healthcare providers. This includes dates, times, and the names of the medical professionals involved. Documenting your experience thoroughly can be crucial for building a strong case.
2. Obtain Medical Records
Request copies of all relevant medical records as soon as possible. These records will provide essential evidence of the care you received and any potential errors that occurred. It’s important to review these records carefully and keep them organized.
3. Seek a Second Opinion
Consult another healthcare provider to get an independent assessment of your condition and the treatment you received. A second opinion can help confirm whether malpractice occurred and provide additional documentation to support your claim.
4. Avoid Direct Communication with the Suspected Provider
Refrain from discussing your suspicions with the healthcare provider or facility involved. Direct communication could lead to the alteration or loss of critical evidence. Instead, focus on gathering information and seeking legal advice.
5. Consult a Medical Malpractice Attorney
Contact an experienced medical malpractice attorney to discuss your case. An attorney can help you understand your legal options, guide you through the process, and ensure that your rights are protected. They can also help you navigate the complexities of filing a lawsuit and meeting legal deadlines.
Taking these steps can help ensure that you have the necessary evidence and support to pursue a medical malpractice claim effectively.
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The Harm and Damages that Medical Negligence Can Cause.
And what an experienced medical malpractice attorney can help you recover:
Physical Damages
- Injuries and Complications: Patients may experience new injuries or worsening of their existing condition due to medical errors. This can include surgical complications, infections, or permanent disabilities.
- Chronic Pain: Malpractice can lead to ongoing pain and suffering, affecting the patient’s quality of life and ability to perform daily activities.
- Emotional Distress: The trauma of experiencing medical malpractice can result in significant emotional and psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Monetary Damages
- Medical Expenses: Patients often incur substantial costs for additional medical treatments needed to correct the errors made. This includes hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: If the malpractice results in the patient being unable to work, they may lose income and future earning potential. This can have a long-term financial impact on the patient and their family.
- Non-Economic Damages: These include compensation for pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and emotional distress. While harder to quantify, these damages are crucial for addressing the full impact of the malpractice.