In many parts of the world medical malpractice is still not a crime. Especially in third-world and developing countries, people who fell victim to unprofessional medical operations are often left to fend on their own and are often brushed aside and uncompensated for any damages, whether physiological or psychological. If you are placed in a role where you need to help people in such a predicament or if you yourself fall victim to such malpractices, here are some important things to do.
Seek Medical Treatment.
Always seek medical attentionif you believe that you are suffering as a result of medical malpractice, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible to address any potential health issues. So to take this into a general note, some medical operations usually do have some side effects or some discomfort after the operation, but if the discomfort is too much, then one should consult another medical professional or firm and be guided on how to get an independent medical examination, to get a more comprehensive and unbiased medical assessment.
This is done for reasons that any damage could now be prevented if it is treated earlier. There is no harm in seeking a second opinion especially if the patient feels that something is not right with their body after a medical operation.
Document Everything
This part is quite important especially if the victim is considering taking it to a court or is planning on getting an insurance claim and that is to getcopies of your medical records. You can request copies of your medical records, including any test results, diagnoses, and treatment plans. These documents can be important evidence in a medical malpractice case or even on claims done at the insurance company.
It is very important to document so that the pieces of evidence can then be processed toward speedy justice for the victims. Keep track of all medical bills, expenses, and lost wages related to the incident. This information can help you build a strong case and recover damages if you decide to pursue legal action.
File a Complaint
It is in your inherent right as a patient to file a complaint especially if you are not satisfied with the services that you paid for in any medical facility. You can file a complaint with your state medical board or with the hospital where you received treatment. These organizations may investigate your case and take action against the healthcare provider if necessary.
Now filing a complaint does not necessarily mean that you will file a criminal case, the latter will only ensue if the complaint that you have filed has fallen into the deaf ears of the bureaucracy. But in many cases, medical complaints are often addressed immediately by the medical institutions because their name is on the line.
Consult an Attorney
Of course, you can always contact a qualified medical malpractice attorney who can evaluate your case and advise you on your legal options. Many attorneys offer free consultations, so you can discuss your situation and decide if you want to pursue legal action. But if such is the case, there would be a hefty legal fee that would ensure such actions and at the end of the trial, it is not guaranteed that the opposing party will be granted the obligation to pay for the legal fees of the said victim.
It is imperative to note that medical malpractice cases can be complex, due to the context and circumstances surrounding each case, and is often difficult to prove, so it’s important to work with an experienced attorney who can guide you through the process and the same time work with people who can assist you in the paralegal aspect of your case.