Although medical professionals work hard to save lives every day, that doesn’t mean they are immune to making mistakes. Unfortunately, some errors are substantial enough to cause a patient significant harm or even wrongful death. In those instances, victims have the right to seek damages by filing a medical malpractice claim. But how do you make the distinction between legally negligent behavior and actions amounting to poor-quality health care? Understanding the difference is the first step in determining if a patient has a valid case.

Medical Malpractice vs. Poor Health Care

There are situations in which people report experiencing unethical conduct from their medical team when receiving treatment. This may include doctors or nurses having a rude attitude, making disparaging remarks about the patient, or playing inappropriate practical jokes while performing procedures. Depending on the impact these behaviors have on the patient’s well-being, they may be viewed as bad care, warranting minimal punishment, or they could constitute as medical malpractice with considerable consequences.

Though malpractice is typically thought of in relation to surgical errors, misdiagnosis, and inappropriate treatments, the law doesn’t specifically limit liability to these actions. This is why such cases are a challenge to navigate. Plaintiffs must prove health care professionals violated their duty to provide a standard of care and that this directly resulted in harm to the patient. Simply alleging that a doctor or nurse made a mistake won’t be enough to recover compensation. Because of the complexities surrounding malpractice laws, it’s crucial to have an experienced attorney represent your case.

If you or a family member have been the victim of medical malpractice or poor-quality health care, consult with the Law Offices of Charles P. Dargo, P.C. Their team will determine which category your situation falls into and whether you have a good chance at winning restitution. They offer DeMotte, IN, residents reliable counsel and representation to secure the best possible outcome. Call (219) 345-3114 to schedule a consultation, or visit their website to learn more about their expertise in personal injury law.