Published on March 2nd, 2023
Hospitals are a place of healing and recovery. Unfortunately, there are times when medical professionals and hospitals fail to provide the standard of care expected of them, resulting in hospital negligence claims.
In this article, we will discuss what hospital negligence is, what you need to know when navigating these claims, and how you can protect yourself if you or a loved one has been a victim of hospital negligence.
Common Types Of Hospital Negligence
Hospital negligence can take many forms, but some of the most common types include:
- Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis: This can occur when a healthcare professional fails to diagnose or correctly identify a patient’s medical condition in a timely manner, which can lead to delayed treatment or inappropriate treatment.
- Surgical errors: These can include performing the wrong surgery, leaving surgical instruments inside a patient’s body, or making mistakes during a procedure that can cause injury or complications.
- Medication errors: These can include prescribing the wrong medication or dosage, failing to recognize drug interactions, or administering medication in the wrong way.
- Infections: Hospitals have a duty to take reasonable precautions to prevent infections, such as through proper hand hygiene and sterilization techniques. Failure to do so can result in serious and even life-threatening infections.
- Failure to monitor patients: Hospitals and healthcare professionals have a duty to monitor patients and respond to changes in their condition. Failure to do so can lead to serious complications, including cardiac arrest or stroke.
- Falls: Hospitals have a duty to keep patients safe, including preventing falls. Failure to do so can result in serious injuries, particularly for older patients or those with mobility issues.
These are just a few examples of the types of hospital negligence that can occur.
Filing A Hospital Negligence Claim And Gathering Evidence
NYC malpractice lawyers can help you file a negligence claim, gather evidence, and argue in your favor. If you believe you or a loved one has been a victim of hospital negligence, you may consider filing a claim to seek compensation for damages.
Wondering how to do that? Here are some steps to take to file a hospital negligence claim, but please note that the actual procedure can differ from state to state.
- Get medical help: If you or a loved one has been a victim of hospital negligence, your top priority should be getting medical help as soon as possible. Make sure you have received proper medical treatment for any injuries or medical issues that resulted from the hospital’s negligence.
- Document the incident: Start gathering evidence about the hospital’s negligence. Take photographs of any physical injuries or medical conditions that resulted from the negligence. Also, write down a detailed account of what happened and any conversations that took place between you and the hospital staff.
- Keep all relevant medical records: Collect all relevant medical records, including any medical tests, diagnoses, and treatment plans. Make sure to keep all bills, receipts, and other documentation related to your hospital stay.
- Contact a lawyer: Hospital negligence cases can be complex, so it is best to work with an experienced personal injury lawyer who has handled similar cases before. Your lawyer can guide you through the legal process, help you gather evidence, and represent you in court if necessary.
- File a claim: Your lawyer will help you file a claim with the hospital’s insurance company or directly with the hospital. They will help you negotiate a settlement or represent you in court if the case goes to trial.
Keep in mind that hospital negligence claims can be time-sensitive. It is important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.
Choosing The Right Attorney: Experience, Reputation, And Success Rate
Choosing the right attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your hospital negligence claim. There are several factors to consider when selecting an attorney, including their experience, reputation, and success rate.
Hospital malpractice lawyers work much like a wrongful death attorney New York – they collect evidence and help you out in court or during negotiations. But these factors are common among all types of attorneys.
You want an attorney who has a history of successfully litigating cases and securing favorable outcomes for their clients. You should ask the attorney about their success rate and inquire about the specific strategies they use to win cases.
Choosing the right attorney for your hospital negligence claim is critical. By considering their experience, reputation, and success rate, you can find an attorney who will fight for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
In Conclusion
Hospital negligence can have devastating consequences for patients and their families, and it’s important to understand what it is and how to navigate the claims process. When a medical professional or hospital fails to provide the standard of care expected of them, it can result in serious injury, illness, or even death.
If you or a loved one has been the victim of hospital negligence, it’s important to seek legal representation from a skilled attorney who specializes in medical malpractice. They can help you navigate the legal process and hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions.
By understanding hospital negligence claims and seeking the appropriate legal guidance, you can protect yourself and your loved ones and ensure that you receive the proper care and treatment you deserve.
