Six Signs of Potential Medical Malpractice

It can be difficult to know whether you or a loved one has been the victim of medical malpractice.  While it is always best to consult an experienced attorney if you believe you or a loved one has been the victim of medical malpractice, you should also learn to recognize some potential signs.

Six Signs of Potential Medical Malpractice

Misdiagnosis

Misdiagnosis of a serious or even fatal condition can be grounds for a medical malpractice claim. A sign of misdiagnosis is having symptoms that do not match the condition you were diagnosed with. In a case like this, it is advisable to get a second opinion.

Delayed Diagnosis

When a life-threatening or fatal illness goes undiagnosed, it could get worse and progress to the point where treatment is no longer viable. If a doctor did not diagnose you or a loved one with a condition in time for it to be treated appropriately, you may have a medical malpractice case. A sign of a delayed diagnosis is continuing symptoms of disease despite no official diagnosis.

Incorrect Medication

If you or a loved one was prescribed the wrong medication to treat a medical condition or were prescribed an incorrect dosage amount, you or your loved one may have been the victim of medical malpractice. Medication errors can cause serious problems, especially if they negatively interact with other medications you or your loved one takes.  Prescription errors can cause significant consequences, including death.

Lack of Informed Consent

Doctors are required to explain any potential risks or side effects associated with treatments, procedures, and medications so that you or your loved one can make an informed decision about whether or not to continue with the recommended plan. If you or your loved one has unexpected complications from a treatment, procedure, or medication, you may have a medical malpractice claim for lack of informed consent.

Admission of Error

If a medical professional admits they made a mistake while caring for you, you should consider contacting a medical malpractice attorney. While most healthcare providers will not admit fault, some medical providers may think they can stave off a malpractice suit by admitting their mistake.

A Loved One Dies During or After a Procedure

Death is an unfortunate risk of many surgical procedures. If your loved one dies during what is described as a routine procedure, or passes away shortly after the procedure, you may be able to bring a case for wrongful death. This is a complicated situation, so gaining the counsel of an experienced medical malpractice and wrongful death attorney is critical to help you determine if medical malpractice caused your loved one's death.

Medical Malpractice cases are oftentimes very difficult to prove.  In addition to the fact that the science behind some cases can be complicated, medical providers are amongst the most trusted members of society and held in high esteem. But, if you recognize any of the above signs of malpractice, contact the attorneys at Hirsch Andrade LLP right away to learn how our experience can help you obtain the justice you deserve.