The rate of professional liability claims filed against physicians and other medical professionals is declining. There are many reasons for this including improved patient safety caused by greater oversight and stricter adherence to established regulations. However, while the rate of claims is declining, it does not mean that all problems are solved, or that patients aren't still at risk of serious harm.
Are Hospitals Liable for Injuries Caused by Ventilator Defects and Shortages?
Hospitals may be liable for injuries caused by supply shortages and defective equipment. The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed significant shortfalls and shortcomings in healthcare. These are placing patients at unnecessary risk to their health and safety. Individuals who suffer injuries, and survivors of those who pass away, may have the option to pursue compensation from healthcare providers. Because of current circumstances, individuals and their loved ones should contact an attorney prior to undergoing treatment with ventilators in order to ensure proper documentation and treatment.
How Will the Coronavirus Impact Medical Malpractice Risk?
The current pandemic is likely to have a significant impact on medical malpractice risk. Physicians are currently seeking legislative protection that would shield them from medical malpractice suits arising from care and treatment provided during these extraordinary times. Following efforts led by the American Medical Association, the Governors in New York, New Jersey, and Michigan have already issued orders that raise the standards for injuries and deaths that occur while the pandemic is ongoing.
Medical Malpractice, How Long Do You Have to File
The statute of limitations in Illinois for filing a medical malpractice claim is two years from the date the injury was discovered, or should have been discovered by the individual. Failing to file a claim within this time period can result in the court dismissing the claim. However, there are exceptions and it's important to understand these before moving forward.
Everything You Never Wanted to Know About Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice is the third leading cause of death in the United States and understanding the histories of their doctors and the risks of any procedure before they receive treatment can help keep patients safe. When patients are injured by negligent doctors, they have the right to pursue medical malpractice claims. However, even with financial compensation, the damage done by a negligent physician can last a lifetime.
FDA Crackdown: Unauthorized Stem Cell Clinics
Many stem cell clinics promise expensive treatments and unproven solutions that don't pass muster, and the FDA is cracking down on these bad actors to put them out of business. While there is potential in the use of stem cell treatment for some diseases and medical conditions, many of these treatments are experimental at this stage and few have demonstrated known benefits. However, that hasn't stopped unauthorized stem cell clinics from preying on the wallets of hopeful victims seeking solutions for serious medical ailments.
Surgical Staplers Causing Serious Injuries, Deaths
Malfunctioning surgical staplers manufactured by Johnson and Johnson's Ethicon unit were recently recalled after at least seven patients were seriously injured and one person died. When these devices fail to operate properly, connection leaks post-operation, hemorrhages, or infection can result. Victims can pursue medical malpractice claims against the surgeon who performed the procedure and product liability claims against Johnson and Johnson.
Artificial Intelligence: A New Era in Medical Malpractice
Artificial Intelligence (AI) use in healthcare settings is a hazardous evolution that could result in serious injuries or wrongful deaths. Improper coding or interpretation of the data provided by AI systems could cause physicians, surgeons, or other members of the medical team to make otherwise preventable mistakes.
Medical Malpractice: Communication Errors May Be Deadly
Breakdowns in communication lead to poor treatment outcomes and raise the risk of potentially deadly consequences. Nationwide, between 60% to 70% of preventable hospital deaths boil down to errors in communication. When physicians, nurses, and other members of the medical team fail to properly disseminate information to one another, they negligently place patient health and safety at risk.
When Your Kidneys Go Missing
Removal of a healthy kidney can leave a patient without a functioning kidney. This wrong-site surgery can have serious, even fatal consequences for a patient. When physicians remove the wrong kidney, they may leave a diseased or cancerous organ in place. Without at least one properly functioning kidney, the patient can be reliant on dialysis and transplant for survival.
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