In 2013, a study in the Journal of Patient Safety made headlines when it set forth data that made “medical negligence/errors” the third leading causing of death, just after heart disease and cancer. The study found that 210,000 and 440,000 deaths per year could it part be attributed to medical error. For this reason alone, it is important to be cautious whenever seeking medical care. The following are 5 things you need to know to lessen the risk of becoming a victim of medical negligence:
1. Do not be afraid to speak up. When you meet with your doctor come prepared with written questions and do not leave without complete answers. If you tend to feel stressed or overwhelmed when speaking to your doctor, ask a trusted friend or family member to accompany you to the visit. Being proactive about your health is one of the best ways to lessen the likelihood of experiencing medical malpractice.
2. Trust your gut and seek a second opinion. While it is important to trust your doctor, you also need to trust your gut and use common sense. If your doctor’s advice does not sit well with you, remember it is okay and often a good idea to seek a second opinion. Getting a second opinion does not mean that you are firing your doctor or that you think badly of him or her. Consider it more like getting a few estimates for a household remodeling project!
3. If your doctor is not listening to you, find a new doctor. If you consistently feel like your doctor is not listening to you or taking the time to fully answer your questions or address your concerns, then it may be a good time to find a new doctor. Your health is the most important thing in the world and you should not entrust it with a doctor who is not making you feel like a priority.
4. If you suspect medical practice, speak with attorney as soon as possible. The first thing you should do if you suspect you or loved was one was the victim of medical practice is to make an appointment to speak with an experienced medical malpractice attorney. Only a medical malpractice attorney can determine if you indeed have a case and review with you your legal options. It is important not to delay! The amount of time a person has to file a case varies from state to state. If too much time has passed, a person could miss out on pursuing a valid claim.
5. Think twice before forgoing a claim. Each year, people who have valid causes of action for medical malpractice, never file a case or purse recourse against the hospital or doctor. Sometimes these claims go unfiled because the person or family members have the perceived notion that the costs to pursue a claim are too high. Many wrongly think that it will cost them thousands of dollars up front—that they do not have—to file a claim. This is why it is so important to talk to attorney!
If you have lost a loved one due to what may be medical negligence, the law firm of Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. can help. The seasoned Kansas City Medical Malpractice Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. will take the time to review your loved one’s case to see if the hospital or doctor can be held accountable. At Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. we understand the devastating impact the loss of a loved one due to medical malpractice can have on a family. Trust our team of attorneys to help you! Whether your case is in Kansas or Missouri, we will fight to obtain compensation for you. To schedule an initial consultation with one of our esteemed attorneys, call Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. today at (816) 472-4673.