What types of cases are considered medical malpractice?
As a lawyer, I can advise that medical malpractice typically involves a healthcare professional or institution failing to provide proper treatment or care, which results in harm to the patient. This can include a failure to diagnose a medical condition, a misdiagnosis, surgical errors, medication errors, and improper healthcare management.
In order for a medical malpractice claim to be successful, the injured party, or plaintiff, must prove that the healthcare provider or institution breached their duty of care, that this breach caused the injury or harm suffered, and that damages resulted from the harm. It is important to keep in mind that not all negative outcomes in medical treatment are the result of malpractice, but rather may be due to unforeseeable complications.
There may be limitations or exceptions to a medical malpractice claim depending on the jurisdiction and the type of medical professional being sued. For example, certain states may have caps on the amount of damages that can be recovered in a medical malpractice suit. Some states may also require that a plaintiff first seek compensation from a medical malpractice claims fund before filing a lawsuit.
If you suspect that you or a loved one has been a victim of medical malpractice, it is advisable to speak with an experienced attorney who can evaluate the circumstances of the case and provide guidance on the appropriate course of action. They may suggest filing a complaint with the state medical board or pursuing a medical malpractice lawsuit through the court system.