Medical malpractice happens when a hospital, doctor, or healthcare provider does not follow accepted standards of care and that failure causes serious harm to a patient. This can include surgical errors, misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, birth injuries, medication mistakes, or a failure to monitor a patient\u2019s condition. In other words, it is not just a bad medical outcome\u2014it is when a preventable error or unsafe care leads to life-changing injury or death.<\/p>\n
After a life-changing injury caused by medical negligence, you may wonder if you have a valid case and how to begin the process. Medical malpractice doesn\u2019t happen only in hospitals \u2014 it can occur in doctors\u2019 offices, clinics, nursing homes, or any setting where patients receive care.<\/p>\n
One of the first steps is to request your complete medical records, including x-rays, scans, and fetal monitoring strips. Providers usually make these available electronically, often on a CD. You should also gather records from the doctors treating your injuries and document the changes in your daily life. Photos and videos of your home, car, or activities can help show how your condition has affected you, especially when compared to images from before your injury.<\/p>\n
Medical malpractice cases are complicated. They often involve detailed medical records, expert opinions, and questions about whether patient safety rules were followed. To help families understand the process, we provide two completely free books written by our own Attorney Frank Kearney. Choosing an experienced medical malpractice lawyer you can trust is critical.<\/p>\n
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\nThe Patient\u2019s Guide to Medical Malpractice<\/em><\/strong><\/span>
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\nPicking Up the Pieces: A Parent\u2019s Guide to Medical Malpractice<\/em><\/strong><\/span>
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