People are inclined to trust their doctors and hospitals. Even when people are skeptical of the medical profession as a whole, they are likely to trust their personal physicians. After all, we do not entrust our health and well-being to just anyone.
Medical malpractice does happen and the results can be horrendous. It’s worthwhile to check the credentials of any surgeon or other physician as thoroughly as possible. As in any profession, some are more skilled and more conscientious as others. This is even more important now when doctors may be pressed to spend less time than formerly with an individual patient.
There are some startling facts about medical malpractice cases. We all must do what we can to protect ourselves.
- About 1 out of every 3 medical malpractice claims results from a faulty diagnosis. It never hurts to get a second opinion.
- Medical negligence ranks as the third leading cause of death in this country. The one and two spots are held by heart disease and cancer. This illustrates how wide-spread the problem is.
- Over 30% of medical malpractice claims involve the death of the patient.
- The patient was left brain damaged or quadriplegic, needing lifelong care, in 12% of these cases.
- Approximately 1 out of every 4 cases are related to surgery.
- The problem at the root of much negligent care is the mental state of the health care provider. He or she may be complacent, assuming that they know what the medical issue is without conducting necessary tests. The physician may not look at the whole picture, missing important signals indicating a different diagnosis.
It’s hard to know for sure if there has been negligent care. A patient can receive the best possible care and still have a bad outcome. However, if medical malpractice is suspected, what is the next step? Many would recommend contacting a Medical Malpractice Lawyer in Rockland County NY.
Medical malpractice cases are extremely complicated, requiring that a Medical Malpractice Lawyer in Rockland County NY (or elsewhere) has a high level of skill and experience. Claims should be investigated sooner rather than later. Rockland Injury Lawyers have a proven record of results dating back to 1960. to schedule a free consultation.
