medical malpractice

Health care professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists and members of the hospital staff, must abide by a standard of care in treating and dealing with patients. Failure to do so can result in traumatic injuries or even death for which the medical professionals and the hospitals where they work can be liable. As many as 1 out of every 25 hospital patients is injured by a medical mistake. According to the federal Agency for Health Care Research and Quality, 44,000 to 98,000 people die each year from medical errors. Improper conduct can include misdiagnosing diseases, prescribing the wrong or conflicting medication, delaying or failing to provide treatment, surgical errors, anesthesia mistakes and child delivery mistakes.

It is paramount to diagnose cancer, heart disease and other ailments quickly before they progress. One key is for medical professionals to correctly read and interpret lab results, x-rays and mammograms. Failure to diagnose a condition can lead to delayed treatment, which can result in complications or even death. Doctors who fail to diagnose lung, liver, colon, breast or brain cancer or other conditions may be negligent.

If you believe your doctor or hospital has erred in your medical care, contact Bailey & Benfield for a free case evaluation.