How to Identify Medical Malpractice: Key Signs to Watch For 

Medical malpractice is a serious issue that can have devastating effects on patients and their families. At McCune Law Group, we understand the intricacies of medical malpractice law and are committed to helping victims seek justice and compensation. One of the crucial steps in addressing potential medical malpractice is identifying it early. Here, we provide key signs to watch for that might indicate medical malpractice. Findlaw.com has a breakdown on the first steps to take in the event of medical malpractice. 

Unnecessary Surgical Procedure 

One significant red flag is undergoing surgical procedures that may not have been necessary. If a patient feels that the reasons for surgery were not adequately explained or if alternative, less invasive treatments were not considered, this could be a sign of malpractice. Consulting another medical professional for a second opinion can often clarify whether the surgical procedure was justified. 

Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis 

Another key sign of medical malpractice is a misdiagnosis or a delay in diagnosis. Misdiagnosis occurs when a medical professional inaccurately identifies a patient’s condition. Delayed diagnosis, on the other hand, refers to a situation where there is an unreasonable delay in diagnosing a condition. Both scenarios can lead to inappropriate or delayed treatments, worsening the patient’s health. 

Medical Errors 

Medical errors, including medication errors and surgical mistakes, are also indicative of potential malpractice. Medication errors can involve prescribing the wrong drug, the wrong dosage, or failing to recognize harmful drug interactions. Surgical mistakes encompass a wide range of errors, such as operating on the wrong site, leaving surgical instruments inside the body, or damaging internal organs during surgery. 

Lack of Informed Consent 

Informed consent is a fundamental aspect of medical practice. Physicians are required to explain the risks, benefits, and alternatives of a proposed treatment or procedure. If a patient undergoes treatment without fully understanding the potential risks involved, this could be a sign of malpractice. The lack of informed consent means the patient was not able to make a truly informed decision about their care. 

Poor Follow-Up or Aftercare 

Healthcare does not end when the primary treatment does. Adequate follow-up and aftercare are essential components of a patient’s recovery process. Signs of inadequate follow-up care may include neglecting to schedule necessary check-ups or failing to address complications that arise after a procedure. Poor aftercare can lead to preventable complications and may be considered malpractice. 

Unusual or Unexpected Outcomes 

While not all unforeseen outcomes are due to malpractice, an unusual or unexpected result, especially if the healthcare provider cannot offer a reasonable explanation, could be a cause for concern. Trust your instincts; if something feels off, it may be worth further investigation. 

Lack of Communication 

Effective communication between patients and healthcare providers is crucial. If a healthcare provider is consistently unresponsive or dismissive of your concerns, it may be a sign that something is wrong. Patients should feel heard and understood, and their questions should be answered comprehensively. 

Frequently Asked Questions:  

• How does lack of communication from healthcare providers relate to potential malpractice? 
  • Poor communication can lead to misunderstanding, misdiagnosis, and inadequate treatment. If a healthcare provider is consistently unresponsive or dismisses patient concerns, it could be indicative of negligent care and malpractice. 
• What steps should a patient take if they suspect they are a victim of medical malpractice? 
  • Patients should gather all medical records and documentation related to their care, seek a second opinion from another medical professional, document their communications with healthcare providers, and consult with an experienced medical malpractice attorney to understand their rights and legal options. 
• What constitutes unnecessary surgical procedures as a sign of medical malpractice? 
  • Unnecessary surgical procedures can be considered medical malpractice if the surgery was not medically justified, alternatives were not considered, or if the patient was not adequately informed about the necessity and risks of the procedure. 
• How can a patient determine if they were misdiagnosed or if there was a delayed diagnosis? 
  • Patients can seek a second opinion from another medical professional to confirm their diagnosis and evaluate whether the initial diagnosis was accurate or delayed. Documentation and medical records can also provide evidence of misdiagnosis or delay. 

How to Start Your Potential Case  

When medical malpractice occurs, it can be frightening and overwhelming for anyone. Contact a highly experienced team member from McCune Law Group and we can help with your interests. Here are four steps to help you initiate contact:    

1. Step 1: Research and Gather Information – Before reaching out, gather all relevant information about your case. This includes details about the incident and information about the parties involved. Take note of the date, time, and location of the incident.     
2. Step 2: Call or Complete the Form for Initial Evaluation – Use the provided phone number or online form to contact our team. You may find it helpful to prepare a summary of your case before making the call or completing the form. This will ensure you provide essential details efficiently.     
3. Step 3: Schedule a Free Evaluation – Request a free evaluation to discuss your case in detail. We offer free initial evaluations to assess the viability of your case. During this meeting, you can share the specifics of your situation, ask questions, and get a better understanding of how our team can assist you.     
4. Step 4: Prepare for the Evaluation– Before the scheduled evaluation, organize all relevant documents and be prepared to articulate the details of your case clearly. This will help the attorney assess the merits of your case more effectively. During the evaluation, feel free to ask any questions you may have about the legal process, potential outcomes, and our approach to medical malpractice lawsuits. 

Keep Yourself Informed 

Identifying medical malpractice can be challenging, but being aware of these key signs can help patients take action if they suspect they have been a victim. At McCune Law Group, we are dedicated to advocating for our clients and ensuring they receive the justice they deserve. If you suspect medical malpractice, it is important to consult with an experienced attorney who can help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process. Do not hesitate to contact us for an evaluation. 

By staying vigilant and informed, you can better protect yourself and your loved ones from the detrimental effects of medical malpractice.