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What types of cases fall under medical malpractice?

Legal Advice:

Medical malpractice occurs when a medical professional fails to provide adequate care, causing harm or injury to a patient. In the U.S., medical malpractice cases fall under the umbrella of tort law, which is the area of law that deals with civil wrongs and injuries caused by one party to another.

Some examples of medical malpractice may include:

  1. Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of a condition
  2. Surgical errors, such as performing the wrong surgery or leaving surgical tools inside a patient
  3. Prescribing the wrong medication or dosage
  4. Anesthesia errors or complications
  5. Birth injuries caused by medical negligence during delivery
  6. Failure to obtain informed consent for a medical procedure
  7. Negligent post-operative care or follow-up

It is important to note that not every unfavorable outcome or medical error constitutes medical malpractice. A physician can make an honest mistake or provide substandard care without necessarily committing malpractice. To establish a medical malpractice claim, the plaintiff must demonstrate that the medical professional breached the applicable standard of care and caused the plaintiff's injury or damages.

If you believe you have been a victim of medical malpractice, it is important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can review your case and advise you on your legal rights and options. Your attorney may recommend obtaining medical records, consulting with medical experts, and filing a lawsuit or pursuing a settlement with the responsible parties.

In summary, medical malpractice cases involve instances where medical professionals fail to provide adequate care and cause harm or injury to a patient. These cases may include misdiagnosis, surgical errors, prescription errors, anesthesia complications, birth injuries, failure to obtain informed consent, and negligent post-operative care. It is important to consult with an attorney to determine whether you have grounds for a medical malpractice claim and what steps to take to pursue your legal remedies.