What to Do If You’re a Victim of a Medical Error
In a 2016 study of medical error rates in the United States, researchers at Johns Hopkins University concluded that medical errors are the country’s third leading cause of death. Approximately 80,000 to 160,000 people are negatively affected by medical errors each year, according to the researchers.
While not all medical errors rise to the level of medical malpractice, it is worth looking into the situation if you have suffered adverse effects from an error and you suspect malpractice is involved. Here’s what to do:
- Get your symptoms examined as soon as possible.
Having another doctor look at your symptoms and provide a diagnosis can help you determine whether your symptoms resulted from a medical error and, if so whether the error was the result of negligence that fell below the standard of care—a necessary element in any medical malpractice case. This appointment can also help you ensure you get treatment for your injuries.
- Keep all your paperwork together.
Start a file or storage system for all the paperwork related to your injury or illness, including medical records, bills and receipts, paperwork from time away from your job, and other items. These records will provide the basis for a malpractice claim and help you establish the damages to which you are entitled.
- Talk to an attorney.
An experienced lawyer can help you determine whether the harm you’ve suffered rises to the level of malpractice. Your lawyer can also help you protect your legal rights, navigate insurance claims, and take other essential steps toward securing the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been injured and you suspect medical malpractice is to blame, an experienced Pittsburgh medical malpractice lawyer can help you understand your legal options and choose the right course of action for you. Contact Berger Lagnese & Paul, LLC at 412-471-4300 or via our online contact form to learn more today.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney/client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.