A study by John Hopkins found that 250,000 people in the U.S. die annually because of medical malpractice, making it the third leading cause of death after cancer and heart disease, according to CNBC. Regardless of how minor a medical error might be, the results have long-term adverse effects on a patient’s health. Some common health negligence cases include wrong drug prescription, improper drug administration, surgical errors, and childbirth malpractices.
Misdiagnosis and differential diagnosis are also common and account for a large number of malpractice lawsuits. While this medical error often leads to delayed treatment or no treatment, not all cases are considered as negligent. For example, if you’re misdiagnosed for symptoms and types of sleep disorders, you’ll need expert opinion before filing a lawsuit. That way, you can determine if your claim will yield positive results in court. Here are some tips on how to cope with medical negligence.
Consult A Second Opinion
Health experts recommend finding another physician as soon as possible if you suspect your physician has made a misdiagnosis during your treatment. Seeking a second medical opinion will help determine what could have happened if the first physician did not make a misinterpretation. The second physician will then provide the right diagnosis and prescribe the required medication. If your case involves incorrect drug administration, the second physician will focus more on treating the complications caused by the medication error.
Get A Copy Of Your Medical Reports
Medical records are essential when filing medical malpractice injury claims in court. So, before you can file a complaint, request a copy of your health record. These documents contain vital information, including tests performed, the number of hospital visits, and prescribed medications. With a detailed medical report, you can prove that your healthcare provider committed a medical error, as it outlines the timeline of events.
Seek The Help Of A Skilled Attorney
Hiring a skilled lawyer is crucial if you contemplate filing a suit for any medication miscalculation. Medical negligence attorneys follow the right processes to help you file a case. They will gather evidence to prove that a healthcare professional did not exercise a high standard of skill when treating you. A medical malpractice lawyer will also determine the cause of medical negligence and calculate damage based on the outcomes of the error. Because lawyers possess excellent negotiation skills, you’ll be sure of receiving a fair settlement.
Keep A Health Journal
If you’re confident that your healthcare provider made an error, document any complications that occurred. This is because, during court proceedings, you’ll be required to state how a medical error has affected your family, work, and finances. By documenting your health, you can easily explain the impacts of medical malpractice like chronic pain, disability, disfigurement, infertility, financial implications, and distress.
Coping with the consequences of a medication error can lead to emotional distress and financial problems. However, by following the right legal requirements, you can secure compensation to settle medical expenses and compensate for the loss of income. In this case, if you suspect you’ve been misdiagnosed or given the wrong medicines, get a second opinion, and contact a medical malpractice lawyer.
