When we seek medical care, we place our trust, and often our lives, in the hands of professionals. While most healthcare providers are highly skilled and dedicated, errors still happen. In fact, a study from Johns Hopkins estimates that more than 250,000 deaths per year in the United States are caused by medical error, making it the third leading cause of death nationwide.
At Harbin & Burnett Law Firm, we help patients and families in Anderson, South Carolina, understand their legal rights when medical care goes wrong.
Understanding Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice occurs when a doctor, nurse, or other healthcare provider fails to meet the accepted standard of care, resulting in harm to the patient. These aren’t just routine mistakes; they are preventable errors that can lead to serious injury, long-term complications, or even death.
Not every negative outcome is malpractice, but when a provider’s negligence directly causes harm, the patient or their family may have a legal claim.
Most Common Types of Medical Malpractice Claims
While malpractice can happen in many forms, some claims are far more common than others.
1. Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis
Failure to properly diagnose a condition or taking too long to reach the correct diagnosis can prevent patients from receiving timely and life-saving treatment. Misdiagnosis is especially dangerous in cases involving cancer, stroke, or heart disease.
2. Surgical Errors
Surgical mistakes can range from operating on the wrong site to leaving instruments inside the body. Even a small error in the operating room can lead to infection, permanent damage, or death.
3. Medication Errors
This includes prescribing the wrong medication, giving the wrong dosage, or failing to account for a patient’s allergies or other medications. Medication mistakes can cause severe reactions or worsen a patient’s condition.
4. Birth Injuries
When proper care isn’t given during pregnancy, labor, or delivery, the results can be devastating. Birth injuries may affect both the mother and child and include conditions like cerebral palsy, oxygen deprivation, or broken bones.
5. Anesthesia Errors
Anesthesia requires careful dosing and monitoring. Mistakes, like giving too much anesthesia or failing to monitor the patient’s vital signs, can lead to brain damage, heart complications, or death.
6. Failure to Treat
In some cases, a doctor may diagnose a condition correctly but fail to provide the appropriate treatment. This may include early discharge, ignoring test results, or not referring the patient to a specialist.
While no legal action can undo the harm, a malpractice claim can help cover the cost of medical bills, lost wages, long-term care, and emotional suffering, and often brings accountability that protects future patients.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation Today
If you believe that you or a loved one has suffered due to medical negligence, don’t wait. The legal process can be complex, and acting quickly is key to protecting your rights.
Contact Harbin & Burnett Law Firm in Anderson, SC, for a FREE case evaluation. Our experienced team is here to listen, investigate, and help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
