What to Do If You Are a Victim of Medical Malpractice

​A study conducted by Johns Hopkins University researchers found that 10% of deaths recorded in the United States are due to medical errors. This makes it the third leading cause of death countrywide. Even if you receive the best medical care possible, there is always a chance that something could go wrong. If you or a loved one has been the victim of medical malpractice, there are a few things you can do.

​What is medical malpractice?

Medical malpractice is a term used to describe a negligent act or omission by a healthcare professional that leads to injury or harm to a patient. Although the exact definition of medical malpractice varies from state to state, the general principles are the same.

In order to prove that medical malpractice has occurred, it must be shown that the healthcare professional owed a duty of care to the patient, that this duty was breached, and that the breach resulted in injury or harm. While medical malpractice can take many different forms, some of the most common include:

• Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis
• Surgical errors
• Birth injuries
• Prescription errors

​In each of these cases, the healthcare professional involved failed to meet the acceptable standards of care, and as a result, the patient suffered some form of harm. If all of these elements are present or a medical error impacts your quality of life, then a patient may be entitled to compensation for their losses.

How to know if you have been a victim of medical malpractice

There are a few key indicators that may suggest you have been the victim of malpractice. If you experience an unexpected or unexplained injury following a medical procedure, this could be a sign that something went wrong.

If you receive a diagnosis that does not match your symptoms, this could be another red flag. Similarly, receiving improper medication or surgical procedures are also causes for concern.
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If information about potential risks associated with a procedure were withheld from you, you may have a case for medical malpractice. Not all injuries or negative outcomes are the results of malpractice. In some cases, the risks and complications of a procedure are simply unavoidable.

​Resources for victims of medical malpractice

If you or a loved one has been the victim of medical malpractice, there are a number of resources available to help you. It’s important to seek legal counsel to determine if you have a case. Reach out to legal malpractice attorneys in Seattle, WA, or whichever city you reside, for more information.

Once you have decided to pursue legal action, there are a number of organizations that can provide support, including the American Association for Justice and the National Center for Victims of Crime.
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In addition, many state and local bar associations offer resources for victims of medical malpractice. These organizations can provide information about filing a claim, finding an attorney, and understanding the legal process.

There are also plenty of websites that offer information and support for victims of medical malpractice. These sites can be a valuable resource for information and support as you navigate the legal process.

Endnote

​No one should have to worry about being the victim of medical malpractice. However, if you or a loved one has been harmed by a healthcare professional, it is important to know that you have options and resources available to you. With the right support, you can get through this difficult time and seek the compensation you deserve.