When you go to the doctor, you put your faith in them that you'll get quality care, but then, things unexpectedly go wrong, leaving you frustrated and disappointed. How could your condition worsen when the opposite should have happened? At first, you may believe that the treatment was ineffective, but what if that wasn't the problem, and instead, you've been prescribed the wrong treatment for your ailment?
That's not a great realization, but unfortunately, many doctors violate the standard of medical care, causing significant damage to patients. If you are a victim of medical malpractice, it's essential to know that you can get compensation for your injuries. However, there are some key steps you need to take so you can build a solid claim.
Visit another doctor
Medical errors can considerably threaten your health, so seeking medical attention as soon as possible is essential to see how the mistake can be corrected. Suppose the first doctor failed to diagnose you properly; in such a case, another medical expert can perform tests to determine your actual illness and then recommend a treatment plan.
Obtain copies of your medical records
If you suspect you are a victim of medical malpractice, it's essential to preserve copies of all your medical records, prescriptions, diagnostic images, and hospital bills. They serve as evidence for your claim, helping establish that you were significantly harmed due to the medical professional's negligence.
Write it all down in a journal
Writing about what happened in a journal is a good idea because the details can be used as another piece of evidence. Describe all your symptoms, and explain how the doctor's error has changed your life. For instance, you may have been forced to take time off of your job so you can focus on your recovery. If that's the case, write down this information. Every entry in your journal can be valuable to support your claim, so try to record everything you endured as a consequence of medical malpractice.
Contact a lawyer
Medical malpractice cases are complex, which is why you should leave things in the hands of an experienced professional. A knowledgeable attorney can track damages, get in touch with relevant specialists, begin negotiations, and even take your case to court if necessary. With a Long Island Medical Malpractice Lawyer by your side, you won't have to worry about receiving fair compensation, as they will handle your case with care as you get to focus on your treatment and mental health.
Don't speak with other parties
Your lawyer should be the main contact point in this situation, so avoid talking to other parties involved. There's no point in contacting the healthcare facility or your doctor to threaten them about the claim. Avoid talking to anyone else, and trust that your lawyer will help you get the best outcome with your claim. Also, refrain from posting anything about your case on social platforms. Even if you have a private account, the defendant could still access your posts, so staying off social media is better until your medical malpractice case is completed.
Final thoughts
Being a medical malpractice victim can bring about a lot of overwhelming emotions, but these tips can help you navigate the legal process successfully, allowing you to focus on your physical and emotional healing.
* This is a contributed article and this content does not necessarily represent the views of sciencetimes.com
