Medical Negligence Information

Understanding Medical Negligence

Medical negligence occurs when a healthcare professional fails to provide an appropriate standard of care, resulting in injury or harm to a patient. These cases are complex and require careful evaluation.

Types of Medical Negligence

• Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis: Failure to correctly diagnose a condition in a timely manner
• Surgical Errors: Mistakes during surgery, wrong-site surgery, or post-operative complications
• Medication Errors: Wrong medication, incorrect dosage, or adverse drug interactions
• Birth Injuries: Injuries to mother or baby during pregnancy, labor, or delivery
• Anesthesia Errors: Complications from improper anesthesia administration

Standard of Care

Healthcare professionals are expected to provide care that meets accepted medical standards. When they fail to meet this standard and a patient is harmed as a result, it may constitute medical negligence.

What to Do If You Suspect Medical Negligence

1. Seek a second medical opinion - Get another healthcare professional's assessment
2. Obtain your medical records - Request complete copies of all relevant records
3. Document everything - Keep detailed notes about your treatment and symptoms
4. Preserve evidence - Keep all medications, medical devices, and documentation
5. Understand time limits - Medical negligence claims have strict time limitations
6. Learn your rights - Understand the medical negligence claim process