Medical Malpractice
Published: 11/04/2009 by TC
Medical Malpractice
By definition, medical malpractice refers to a situation where a person becomes injured due to the negligence, improper action - or lack of action - of a medical professional. Although many people don't realize it, these problems happen all the time in hospitals, clinics and other health care facilities around the country. Medical malpractice is definitely the exception rather than the rule, but any time you are treated by a doctor or another medical professional, you are putting yourself at risk. Sadly, most cases of medical malpractice are due to pure neglect, and are usually totally avoidable and preventable.
Understanding The Risks
Health care professionals and facilities use a term called "informed consent" when relaying the possible benefits - and risks - of any given procedure. As a patient, you must sign off on an informed consent document before undergoing most procedures. Such a document hardly relieves the facility of any malpractice that may occur; instead, it strictly highlights common side effects and potential risks inherent to even a perfectly executed procedure. Malpractice refers to problem that arises outside of the domain of normal risk - and is caused by the disregard of the rules, procedures or protocols that are to be followed to ensure patient safety.
Are You The Victim Of Medical Malpractice?
Sometimes, the line between what constitutes medical malpractice - and what falls within the domain of informed consent - is blurry. Any time you suffer health-related issues after a medical procedure, you should consult with a qualified attorney as quickly as possible. Never ask the medical facility about the situation, as they are certain to tell you that your problems fall under the umbrella of informed consent - even if they technically do not. The only way to find out for certain is by checking with an experienced attorney.
The Many Forms Of Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice can occur in a number of different ways, which also adds to the confusion for people who are unsure if they have fallen prey to it. For instance, an incorrectly filled prescription can qualify as medical malpractice - therefore, the pharmacy can be held liable. An operation done on the incorrect part of the body is a glaring case of medical malpractice, as is an infection caused by improper sterilization techniques. In short, there are many forms of medical malpractice - many which may qualify you for a court-ordered settlement.
Protect Yourself
At the end of the day, medical malpractice is not something to mess around with. Shockingly enough, between 45,000 and 98,000 people die each and every year due to the neglect of a medical professional. Many people chalk it up to basic risk and never seek legal recourse; this not only prevents them from collecting money they are entitled to, but it also opens the door to allowing the medical professional to perform the same mistakes on other patients. Protect yourself and others by always consulting with an attorney whenever a case of medical malpractice occurs; you might just save a life.
