Attorneys Serving Victims of Preventable Medical ErrorsUnfortunately, medical malpractice due to preventable errors is a common occurrence in the United States. It is all because everyone is in a hurry to get things done faster – including patient care. Patients are shuffled in and out with schedules of just 15 minutes in between each one. Some doctors double-book patients, leaving little time actually to spend with each one.
The Affordable Care Act is part of the problem, according to The Inquisitr’s latest post. According to the post, there are more patients entering hospitals and clinics, doctors receiving more patients than usual, and populated areas are being hit the hardest. This leads to more miscalculations and quickly written doctors’ notes, which in turn, cause serious medical errors.
Sometimes, the patients are given the wrong diagnosis because the physician doesn’t have the time to review the right tests. Other times, the patients are given the wrong medication because the doctor wrote the prescription incorrectly – or the pharmacy interpreted the instructions incorrectly.
One of the biggest issues for malpractice since the Affordable Care Act is unsanitary conditions. This is because units are placed too close together to accommodate multiple patients, and there is a higher risk of blood contamination on medical equipment, such as dialysis machines.
Most medical errors are preventable. These errors are not accidents, and physicians are responsible for the injuries they cause.
The single most important way in which a patient can help prevent errors is by being more active in the care that is received. This includes taking part in the medical decisions and making sure that you understand what options are being presented to you. Instead of simply signing a consent form, ask questions. Most importantly, understand the risks and advantages to each treatment. If you are unsure, do not be afraid to ask for clarification. The more informed you are, the less likely you will encounter an adverse outcome.
Also, be clear when filling out paperwork. Never assume a doctor reviews your paperwork, either. Instead, review and remind your doctor of your allergies and adverse reactions to drugs in the past.
When prescribed medications, go over those medications with the physician and ensure that you know what you are taking. You should be aware of the dose, when to take the medication, what the medication does, and the name of the medication. When you pick up your prescription at the pharmacy, ask about generics and make sure that you have received the right medication before taking it home.
If you suffer from an injury due to malpractice or an error on behalf of a healthcare professional, you may be entitled to compensation. Speak with a medical malpractice attorney to have your case assessed for free and explore your options.
Contact Berkowitz and Hanna LLC today to schedule a no-obligation case evaluation. Call us or contact us online to get started with your malpractice claim.
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