4 Warning Signs You’ve Been a Victim of Medical Malpractice

By Your Health Magazine

Medical malpractice is a serious concern for patients in the United States of America. According to a recent study by John Hopkins, over 250,000 people lose their lives every year from medical negligence, while others live with the devastating aftermath of medical errors. However, only 2% of the victimized patients file for malpractice lawsuits with the help of a medical malpractice lawyer. This is mainly because very few patients can recognize the signs of medical malpractice. This blog post covers the main warning signs that you may be a victim of medical malpractice.

Before undergoing any medical procedure, you have the fundamental right to informed consent. This means your doctor must thoroughly explain the details of the proposed treatment, including the potential risks, benefits, and alternative options available. They should also address any questions you have and ensure you fully understand the implications before obtaining your signed consent.

Red flags might appear if your doctor rushes through the explanation, downplays potential risks, or fails to disclose important information altogether. In some cases, consent might be entirely absent, such as when a doctor performs a procedure without your knowledge or authorization.

Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis

A timely and accurate diagnosis is vital for effective treatment. Unfortunately, misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis can occur due to various factors. Busy schedules, overlooking crucial symptoms, or relying solely on test results without a thorough physical examination can all contribute to this issue. Conditions like Lyme disease, appendicitis, and certain cancers are unfortunately common examples of misdiagnoses.

Delayed diagnoses can happen when a doctor fails to recognize the urgency of your symptoms or orders unnecessary additional tests, postponing the start of proper treatment. The consequences of inaccurate or delayed diagnoses can be severe, leading to complications, additional suffering, and even permanent damage.

Surgical Errors

While uncommon, surgical mistakes can have life-altering consequences. Examples include operating on the wrong body part, leaving surgical instruments inside the patient, or causing anesthesia errors. These errors can stem from miscommunication within the surgical team, inadequate training, or simply human error under pressure. The long-term impacts of surgical errors can be devastating. You might face additional surgeries to correct the mistake, experience chronic pain, or suffer functional limitations.

Inadequate Follow-Up Care

Following a medical procedure or treatment, proper follow-up care is crucial for a successful recovery. This might involve scheduled appointments to monitor progress, adjustments to medication, or additional treatment depending on your case.

However, if your doctor fails to provide the necessary follow-up consultations or neglects to give you clear instructions and guidelines for post-procedure care, it could be a red flag. For instance, imagine undergoing surgery but not receiving clear instructions on wound care, pain management, or physical therapy needs. This lack of guidance can jeopardize your recovery and lead to complications.

Endnote

These are some significant warning signs that might indicate you’ve been a victim of medical malpractice. Remember, your health and well-being are paramount. If you experience any of these signs, don’t hesitate to seek professional legal advice from Philadelphia injury attorneys. A medical malpractice attorney can review your case, determine if there’s a basis for a claim, and guide you through the legalities.