This guide is intended to help you understand the proper steps to take if you think you might be the victim of medical malpractice in Ohio. If you still have questions please contact our office today for a free case review.
Medical Malpractice Awareness Month
July is Medical Malpractice Awareness Month, aimed at bringing awareness to healthcare negligence in the U.S.
The month-long observance was initiated by the National Medical Malpractice Advocacy Association (NMMAA), the first medical malpractice advocacy organization to receive national recognition in the U.S.
According to the NMMAA, the goal of the awareness month is to “promote transparency so that Americans, and people all over the world, understand their rights regarding healthcare measures.”
Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice is defined as, “a legal cause of action that occurs when a medical or health care professional deviates from standards in his or her profession, thereby causing injury to a patient.”
Medical errors are the third-leading cause of death in America and kill more than 250,000 people every year.
- Misdiagnosis
- Surgical Errors
- Treatment Mistakes
- Birth Injuries
- Medication Errors
Data from the BMJ U.S. patient-care study, released in 2016, demonstrated that out of 35,416,020 hospitalizations, there were 251,454 deaths as a result of medical error- that’s about 9.5% of all deaths for the year.
How to Prevent Medical Malpractice
Although medical malpractice can occur in a variety of situations, there are a few things you can do to decrease your chances of becoming a victim:
- Find a Specialist– find the best Doctor for your specific condition
- Follow your Doctor’s Advice– get any recommended tests, scans, etc.
It’s important to be your own best advocate for your health. Ask questions, come to appointments prepared, and follow up if anything seems wrong.
Hire a Medical Malpractice Attorney
If you or a loved one has been affected by some form of medical malpractice, know that you are not alone. The first step in fighting medical malpractice is to hire an experienced lawyer who is knowledgable and updated on medical malpractice laws in your state.
For more information on medical malpractice and the different types, visit www.tittlelawfirm.com/lawsuits/medical-malpractice.