Neglect is a problem that continues to simmer in Massachusetts, just like in other states in America. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, medical errors are the third leading cause of death in the United States.
Additionally, according to the Massachusetts Medical Society, medical malpractice is responsible for the deaths of more than 5,000 people in Massachusetts each year.
How does medical negligence happen?
Medical malpractice is a term that is often used in the context of personal injury claims. Generally, it refers to any medical professional who commits an act that results in an injury to a patient.
There are different types of medical malpractice that can occur in Massachusetts, and each has its own set of legal rules and procedures. This may include failing to properly diagnose a patient, providing the wrong treatment, or performing surgery without adequately assessing the patient’s risks.
It should be noted that this should not be confused with intentional misconduct, which refers to the deliberate act of a doctor or other health professional to harm a patient.
These acts may include knowingly falsifying medical records, withholding information from a patient who wishes to have access to it, or performing unnecessary surgery.
What should I do if I am a victim of medical negligence?
Medical negligence can have severe consequences for both the victim and the defendant. For example, the victim may experience physical or emotional injuries, while the defendant may end up with economic damages.
If you are a victim of these incidents, you are entitled to compensation under the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. However, the amount of compensation you may receive will depend on the facts or evidence of the case. This means we have to consider the nature of the medical injury, the severity of the act performed by the physician or other human health professional, and other factors.
Finally, if you feel it is vital to discuss your rights and options with an experienced attorney who can help you understand them, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us and have your questions answered.