Doctors are medical professionals we put our faith in to take care of our health and the health of our loved ones. Whether it is prescribing medication, or undergoing surgery, we all rely on doctors to perform the medical procedures and make medical decisions we cannot. However, while most doctors provide proper, effective treatments, that is not always the case.
There are various estimations for how many Americans die each year due to medical error, and while some studies and research suggest the number is below 100,000 a year, another often cited study from John Hopkins indicates the number of fatalities actually exceeds 250,000 a year.
When it comes to patient safety, the fact remains that doctors and other medical professionals are human, which means mistakes and medical negligence can and do happen.
If you or a loved one is ever the victim of medical malpractice, you will need a personal injury law firm you can rely on to help you obtain the compensation you need and deserve. The Wilson Law Office has extensive experience assisting people in Illinois who have suffered from medical negligence.
Let our firm fight on your behalf for the compensation and closure you need, and see just how our qualified personal injury lawyer in Ottawa, IL can help.
The Medical Malpractice Lawsuit Process
A medical malpractice case involves bringing a claim against a medical professional for negligently injuring a patient. These cases require proof that the healthcare professional violated a specified standard of care. The violation must have caused significant harm, which can include economic and non-economic damages.
Not all negative medical outcomes necessitate a lawsuit. A doctor or surgeon can follow best practices and not deliver the desired results. It is only when they act negligently that you can file for malpractice.
Examples of medical malpractice can include:
- Misdiagnosis
- Premature Discharge
- Misinterpreting Laboratory Results
- Unnecessary Surgery
- Improper Medication/Dosage
- Poor Follow-Up Care
- Anesthesia Errors