Healthcare professionals can make mistakes. If you or a loved one have been affected by medical negligence, it is important to take action. Errors can cause injury, additional treatment and can be super costly and stressful. It is important to proceed with care if you want to be compensated for medical errors in diagnosis, surgery or care.
1). Seem Medical Care
As soon as you suspect that a diagnosis is wrong or there is a medical mistake, find another medical professional. After all, you still need proper care. You do not want to take the wrong medication for the wrong condition. This could make you even sicker. Additionally, if there was a mistake in surgery, you could need another procedure. Time is important when it comes to your health. Seek action quickly to protect yourself.
2). Records Are Everything
Next, make sure you have all of your medical records. It is best to have both electronic and paper copies. It is better to be detail-oriented and overly cautious than to not have enough documentation. Make sure you have information about your diagnosis, treatments, lab results and even your medical history. A timeline of care is important if you want to prove medical negligence occurred. No one can keep you away from your own medical records. If you plan on filing a malpractice claim, you must have this documentation lined up.
3). Reflect on the Experience
Medical negligence not only affects your physical health but also your emotional and mental well-being. Journal any and all thoughts, feelings and symptoms you experience. Make sure you put dates and times and take care to be specific. If you cannot work because of pain, make sure to record this. If your marriage is suffering due to the medical issue, record this too. You could be compensated for pain and suffering. Try to journal or record entries every day.
4). Record Dates for Follow-Up Care
Make sure you have a clear timeline for any and all doctors’ appointments and treatments you have endured. It is important to note if you had to see a physical therapist, counselor and if you sought out alternative therapies like acupuncture. Having a detailed timeline shows just how medical negligence affected your life.
5). Hire an Attorney
If you want to file a medical malpractice or negligence claim against a doctor, you will need an attorney who understands this world. Professionals like Murphys Medical Accident Lawyers can make sure you have all of the necessary documentation and that you understand how the case may play out. They are there to offer advice and support. Do not think that you can represent yourself. After all, you may be dealing with pain and suffering, and you may not know all of the ins and outs of such a case. Professional attorneys are there to explain the likelihood of you winning the claim and are there to answer your questions.
6). Avoid the Doctor or Other Parties
Even if the doctor reaches out, do not respond. Once you hire an attorney and plan to file a claim or lawsuit, you have to let the professionals handle the matter. Anything you say could be used against you. Record if the other party tries to reach out to you and take screenshots of texts if you need to. A medical negligence case can take months or even years to solve, and it is important you are smart with your communication. The other parties can talk to your lawyer if they need information. The doctor may have their insurance company reach out. Again, stay silent. They can reach out to your attorney for clarification, meetings and paperwork.
7). Be Wary of Posting on Social Media
Do not share that you are in the middle of a lawsuit or bash the doctor who committed the medical negligence. Be mindful that people can get around security settings, and that this information could be used against you. You might feel tempted to tell friends to avoid a clinic or healthcare professional, but this could undercut your claim. If you ever wonder when you can respond to a question or inquiry, ask your attorney. They know how to navigate such situations.