Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare professional does not meet the expected level of care that a reasonably skilled healthcare provider would deliver in the same or comparable situations, resulting in harm to the patient.
COMMON TYPES OF MEDICAL MALPRACTICE IN LOUISIANA
Various forms of medical malpractice exist, with some of the most prevalent being:
- Misdiagnosis refers to the erroneous identification or incorrect assessment of a patient’s medical condition by a healthcare professional.
- Delayed diagnosis: A delayed diagnosis can occur when a healthcare provider diagnoses a patient’s condition correctly but does so too late.
- Treatment errors: A treatment error can occur when a healthcare provider provides the wrong treatment to a patient or provides the correct treatment in the wrong way.
- Surgical errors: A surgical error can occur when a surgeon makes a mistake during surgery.
- Medication errors: A medication error can occur when a healthcare provider prescribes the wrong medication or gives the patient the wrong dosage.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF MEDICAL MALPRACTICE
If you have experienced any of the following, you may be a victim of medical malpractice:
- You were misdiagnosed or had a delayed diagnosis.
- You received the wrong treatment, or the treatment was performed incorrectly.
- You experienced surgical complications.
- You suffered a medication error.
- A defective medical device injured you.
- You contracted an infection while in the hospital.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU SUSPECT MEDICAL MALPRACTICE
If you suspect that you or a loved one has been the victim of medical malpractice, it is important to take the following steps:
- Get medical attention. Even if you feel fine, it’s crucial to see a doctor to rule out any hidden injuries.
- Keep a record of your medical care. This includes keeping copies of all medical records, bills, and prescriptions.
- Contact a medical malpractice lawyer. A medical malpractice lawyer can help you investigate your case and determine if you have a legal claim.
WHY DO YOU NEED A LAWYER FOR MEDICAL MALPRACTICE IN LOUISANA?
Medical malpractice cases are complex and can be difficult to win without the help of an experienced medical malpractice lawyer. A medical malpractice lawyer can help you:
- Investigate your case and gather evidence. A medical malpractice lawyer will investigate your case and gather evidence to support your claim. This may include obtaining medical records, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with experts.
- File a lawsuit. Your lawyer will file a lawsuit if you have a valid medical malpractice claim. The lawsuit will explain your injuries and how the healthcare provider’s negligence caused your injuries.
- Negotiate with the insurance company: Once a lawsuit is filed, your lawyer will negotiate with the healthcare provider’s insurance company to try to reach a settlement. If the insurance company does not offer a fair settlement, your lawyer will prepare your case for trial.
How much compensation can you expect after a medical malpractice case in Louisiana?
The compensation you can expect after a medical malpractice case in Louisiana will vary depending on the severity of your injuries, the amount of lost wages, and other factors. However, you may be entitled to compensation for the following:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Punitive damages
CONTACT A MEDICAL MALPRACTICE LAWYER IN LOUISIANA TODAY
If you or a loved one has been the victim of medical malpractice, contact a medical malpractice lawyer in Louisiana today to discuss your legal rights and options. A medical malpractice lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve.
