2 Common Errors that May Constitute Medical Malpractice

Medical malpractice can have tragic consequences. Patients may have lifelong discomfort, and they may need extensive surgeries.

Medical malpractice is a general term that describes cases when a nurse, doctor or healthcare institution is negligent. Certain cases, such as misdiagnosis and childbirth injuries, are more common than others.

How a Malpractice Lawyer Can Help

If you are suffering from injuries that a negligent doctor or healthcare professional caused, you may benefit from consulting an experienced New Orleans medical malpractice lawyer. A malpractice attorney can evaluate your injuries and medical records to advise you on how best to proceed.

The Bowling Law Firm we have more than 30 years of trial experience, and if we determine you have a valid case, we can help you file a claim for compensation. Call us today at (504) 586-5200 to schedule an appointment.

Here are two of the most common medical errors that constitute medical malpractice:

1. Childbirth Injuries

Many medical malpractice claims have to do with fetal injuries. Fetal injuries can be extensive, and a negligent doctor can cause serious brain injuries, fractures and even nerve damage. According to the White House, there are malpractice reforms underway to lower the instances of such injuries with a particular focus on childbirth, and these reforms will benefit both medical practitioners and patients.

Negligence can occur at any stage during the birth or prenatal care phase. A negligent healthcare worker can even harm an unborn child, and if you believe this has happened in your case, it is important that you follow up with a qualified professional to potentially pursue legal action.

2. Misdiagnosis

A significant percentage of medical malpractice claims have to do with a misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of a serious illness, according to HealthDay. If a doctor misdiagnoses you or diagnoses your illness too late, you may have missed a valuable opportunity to treat your illness.

A misdiagnosis can often lead to premature death or serious complications that you may have been able to avoid otherwise. If you believe a misdiagnosis caused you harm and that it was due to a doctor’s negligence, you may be able to seek compensation.

You and your lawyer will need to prove that another doctor would have treated you differently and that the doctor in question did not perform his or her required duties. The doctor who misdiagnosed you may be liable for malpractice if an alternate doctor would have reasonably identified the causes and symptoms of your ailment and proceeded with a different care plan.

If you are suffering from complications following a medial procedure, contact a New Orleans medical malpractice attorney today for advice. The Bowling Law Firm has more than 30 years of trial experience, and we are AV-rated under Martindale-Hubbell’s peer review rating system.

We handle all kinds of medical malpractice claims, and we can evaluate your situation and determine if you have a valid claim. Call us today at (504) 586-5200 to schedule an appointment.