In the healthcare field, the trust between a patient and their healthcare provider is paramount. Yet, there are instances where negligence or misconduct breaks this trust. In New York, medical malpractice suits often arise from such circumstances, serving as a recourse for patients who suffer harm due to preventable errors.
Knowledge of these common reasons people file medical malpractice suits in New York can help you understand the steps you can take to ensure you receive the best possible care.
Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis
Often, people file medical malpractice suits due to misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis. When a healthcare provider fails to accurately diagnose a condition promptly, it can lead to improper treatment, worsening of the illness and sometimes, preventable deaths.
Surgical errors
Another common reason for filing a medical malpractice suit is surgical errors. These can include operations on the wrong site, surgical instruments left inside the body, unnecessary surgery or damage to organs or tissues during surgery. These errors often result in serious health consequences for the patient.
Medication errors
Medication errors encompass a wide range of issues, from wrong prescriptions to incorrect dosage or administration. Whether the mistake occurs at the prescription, dispensing or administration stage, it can have severe, sometimes fatal, effects on a patient’s health.
Birth injuries
Birth is a delicate process and any negligence can lead to injuries to the baby or the mother. Medical malpractice suits often arise from situations where healthcare professionals failed to monitor fetal distress, mishandled birth complications or made errors during cesarean sections.
Neglect of patient’s history
Ignoring a patient’s medical history can result in adverse health outcomes. Medical professionals must take into account past conditions, allergies or specific genetic vulnerabilities when making decisions about treatment or medication.
Medical malpractice is a serious concern that can have lasting effects on patients and their families. Always remember that you have the right to safe and effective healthcare and any deviation from this standard could be grounds for action.
