Is Malpractice Out Of Control ?
By Marc Robbins
Friday, February 25, 2005
Some people might tell you that they've never felt more confident about medical professionals. You might have heard that things have radically improved since Harvard Researchers revealed that 1% of patients treated in New York state hospitals were injured - and worse, .25% actually died due to direct medical negligence.
That was 1984 and as the saying goes, this is now - But is it better ?
Not according to continuing studies that reveal some truly disturbing statistics.
In fact, nearly 8000 physicians nationwide are probably negligent in their daily duties in some regard. That's a statement based on the startling statistics that the 1% from the original Harvard study would seem to be true, right across the country. Among mental health care professionals, specifically psychiatrists - as many as 10% admit to some sort of sexual relationship with their patients.
But it's not as bad as it sounds because more than 50% of all malpractice cases are directly linked to less than 6% of the nation's physicians. That means that the same doctors are doing the same bad work - again and again. Some physicians have had 5 incidents or more and unfortunately they're rarely disciplined.
The Institute of Medicine has stated that nearly 100,000 deaths annually can be attributed to preventable medical negligence or health care errors.
It sounds pretty bleak and no, it isn't getting better but what is changing is the very real empowerment of the average individual to seek justice. Of course the key is, an experienced attorney. Yes, your lawyer is everything in any malpractice claim and it's very important to make contact with a qualified attorney, the moment you believe something's gone wrong.
Some people believe that medical malpractice cases are out of control. They blame they lawyers but the reality is that studies attest to the fact : Medical malpractices insurance costs have risen - not because of litigation but because more and more doctors are failing their patients.
You may feel powerless. You may feel that nobody understands what you're going through but if you feel that negligence is the reason why, there's an injury or a death in your life then you need to speak to someone who understands and cares about what you're going through.
You need to speak with someone who's qualified to see the issues and act on your behalf.
True stories are being played out in hospitals and courtrooms every day. It's entirely possible that your suspicions may in fact be a serious case of negligence. There isn't any time to weigh the evidence yourself and that's why you need to tell your story to a lawyer who's experienced in medical malpractice matters. When you have the right information and the right guidance, you're in control and that's essential to getting a sense of the big picture and moving forward with your life.
