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Realizing that you have been the victim of medical malpractice is certainly frightening. As a patient, you expect your doctors and their staff to provide you with the highest standards of care, and this is an oath that doctors make when they become professional healthcare providers.
Unfortunately, many patients who have indeed been wronged by medical malpractice never seek the compensation they deserve. They’re too confused or afraid to step forward and seek help through a malpractice lawyer New York City.
And to be sure, understanding medical malpractice can be difficult. But just knowing a few, key bits of information can help you both determine whether you might have a legitimate malpractice case and help you do something about it if you do.
4 Things to Know About Medical Malpractice
The definition of medical malpractice
Medical malpractice occurs when you do not get adequate care from your doctors and medical professionals, and this negligence causes further injury. In some cases, medical malpractice can result in death.
In general, it’s important to know that any medical professional can be responsible for medical malpractice — doctors, nurses, orderlies, assistants, or others. Often, the negligence occurs with improper care and treatment, a flawed diagnosis, or care without consent. But there are other situations that involve medical malpractice as well.
The two factors that must be present for you to have a legitimate case
For your malpractice case to be legitimate, these two factors must be present:
- A departure from accepted health practice standards,
- It contributed to or caused injuries or death
The first steps you should take if you think you have a case
Not all medical complications warrant a medical malpractice case, so the first thing you should do if you think you’ve received inadequate medical treatment from a provider is to learn more about it. Without mentioning a law case, ask your provider what happened during your treatment or surgery and what exactly went wrong. You want to have adequate knowledge of the situation.
While doing this, you should also make sure to keep documentation of everything that goes on. If, for example, you have an infection after a surgery, take pictures of the wounds. Keep copies of your medical records as well.
If you feel you have a case, you’ll want to discuss your situation and options with a reputable lawyer in your area as soon as possible.
The time limit you have to file a claim
As is the case with most personal injury cases, there is a statute of limitations you have to keep in mind to file a claim. Courts are strict with these deadlines. Typically, the start date of any statute of limitations is the date of the accident or incident.
Remember: medical malpractice is a crime. This negligent behavior can lead to serious health problems and complications, loss of wages, and the depletion of your savings.
Don’t let a negligent healthcare provider get away with this behavior. You deserve compensation for your pain, suffering, and expenses. You deserve compensation on behalf of your deceased loved one. Get in touch with a reputable New York lawyer today to discuss the merits of your case.
